How the H. pylori VacA protein harms the stomach
Structure and function of Helicobacter pylori VacA
Researchers are figuring out how a toxin made by the stomach bacterium H. pylori damages stomach cells and why some versions raise the risk of ulcers and cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11297129 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project focuses on VacA, a protein secreted by H. pylori that can alter stomach cells and contribute to ulcers and gastric cancer. Scientists will compare different VacA gene variants and determine the protein's 3D structure and how those differences change its effects on cells. Work will use lab-grown human cell models, bacterial samples, and animal models to track how VacA helps H. pylori colonize the stomach and cause disease. The team aims to connect specific VacA features to disease risk and to identify points that could be targeted by diagnostics or therapies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with confirmed H. pylori infection, especially those with gastritis, peptic ulcers, or a family history of gastric cancer, would be most relevant to this research.
Not a fit: People without H. pylori infection or whose stomach problems are caused by noninfectious conditions are unlikely to benefit directly from this project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to new tests or treatments that prevent VacA-driven stomach damage and lower the risk of ulcers and gastric cancer.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have linked certain VacA types to higher disease risk and shown VacA can alter human cells in the lab, but many mechanistic details remain unresolved.
Where this research is happening
Nashville, United States
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center — Nashville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cover, Timothy L — Vanderbilt University Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Cover, Timothy L
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.