Identifying how a toxin from Bacillus cereus affects cells and developing treatments against it
Defining cellular receptors for the Bacillus cereus hemolysin BL toxin (HBL) and the development of anti-HBL therapies
This study is looking at how a toxin from the Bacillus cereus bacteria affects human cells, especially focusing on a specific receptor called LITAF, to help find better treatments for serious infections, particularly for kids and people with weakened immune systems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10766697 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how the hemolysin BL (HBL) toxin produced by the Bacillus cereus bacterium interacts with human cells. The study aims to identify the specific cellular receptors that HBL targets, which is crucial for developing effective therapies against severe infections caused by this pathogen. Using advanced techniques like CRISPR screening, researchers will investigate the role of a receptor called LITAF in the toxin's action, particularly in mouse models. This knowledge could lead to new treatment options for patients, especially vulnerable populations such as children and immunocompromised individuals.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children and immunocompromised individuals who are at higher risk for severe infections from Bacillus cereus.
Not a fit: Patients who are not affected by Bacillus cereus infections or those with other unrelated health conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of targeted therapies that effectively treat infections caused by Bacillus cereus, potentially saving lives.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in identifying cellular receptors for other bacterial toxins, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Pittsburgh, United States
- University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh — Pittsburgh, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Liu, Shihui — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Liu, Shihui
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.