How the body affects Shigella infections
Host factors in shigellosis
Researchers are studying how body cells and immune responses influence Shigella infections to help people who get bacillary dysentery.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11233256 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project looks at how Shigella flexneri injures the colon and how host factors control disease severity. Scientists use an infant rabbit model that mimics human shigellosis to trace how the bacteria enter colon cells and cause tissue damage. They will map the route of infection in the colon and determine whether neutrophils (a type of immune cell) protect against or worsen the disease. The work aims to clear up disagreements in the field so future treatments can target the right host processes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People at risk of or recovering from Shigella (bacillary dysentery), especially children in areas with high rates of infection, are the eventual beneficiaries of this work.
Not a fit: Because this is laboratory and animal-model research rather than a clinical trial, individuals currently seeking immediate treatment for symptoms are unlikely to benefit directly from participation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the findings could point to new ways to prevent or limit colon damage and severe diarrhea from Shigella infections.
How similar studies have performed: Earlier animal models did not reproduce the full colon symptoms seen in people, but the newer infant rabbit model has matched human disease and this project builds on that advance to address unresolved questions.
Where this research is happening
Charlottesville, United States
- University of Virginia — Charlottesville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Agaisse, Herve F — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Agaisse, Herve F
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.