How skin bacteria affect the severity of leishmaniasis
Skin microbiome contributions to the pathogenesis of cutaneous leishmaniasis
This study is looking at how the bacteria on your skin might affect how severe cutaneous leishmaniasis gets, especially focusing on how certain bacteria can make your immune system react differently, and it hopes to find new ways to help you heal better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11097362 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the skin microbiome in the severity of cutaneous leishmaniasis, a neglected tropical disease. It aims to understand how certain bacteria, particularly Staphylococcus aureus, can worsen the disease by influencing the immune response rather than just the parasite itself. By analyzing bacterial changes in patients and using experimental models, the researchers hope to identify specific bacterial factors that contribute to more severe disease outcomes. This could lead to new therapies that target the host's immune response to improve healing.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with cutaneous leishmaniasis, particularly those experiencing severe symptoms.
Not a fit: Patients with leishmaniasis who have mild symptoms or those not infected with the disease may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that enhance healing and reduce the severity of leishmaniasis.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that the microbiome can influence disease outcomes in other conditions, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- University of Pennsylvania — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Scott, Phillip — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Scott, Phillip
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.