How Yersinia pseudotuberculosis infection affects specialized intestinal cells
Official title: Impact of Yersinia pseudotuberculosis infection on M cells in murine infections
Funded at Tufts University Boston · NIH-11013338 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific bacteria affects tiny cells in the intestines of mice that help the immune system recognize germs, and it aims to learn more about how this infection changes those cells and the body's response, which could lead to new ways to treat intestinal infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Tufts University Boston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | January 19, 2024 |
| Project end | November 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $232,509 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI182873-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11013338 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with acute intestinal infections or those at risk of such infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with chronic gastrointestinal conditions unrelated to acute infections may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of Yersinia pseudotuberculosis, a bacterial pathogen, on microfold (M) cells in the intestines of mice. M cells play a crucial role in delivering antigens to immune tissues, and this study aims to understand how the infection alters their function and structure. Using a specialized organoid model, researchers will observe how the bacteria interact with M cells and the resulting effects on immune response. The findings could provide insights into the mechanisms of intestinal infections and potential therapeutic targets.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment of intestinal infections caused by bacterial pathogens.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding bacterial interactions with intestinal cells, but this specific approach is novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Tufts University Boston
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mecsas, Joan C — Tufts University Boston
- Study coordinator: Mecsas, Joan C
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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.