Identifying how pertussis toxin interacts with cell surfaces
Discovery of pertussis toxin receptors
['FUNDING_R21'] · UT SOUTHWESTERN MEDICAL CENTER · NIH-11093550
This study is looking at how a toxin from the whooping cough bacteria interacts with different types of cells in the body, especially those involved in the immune response and breathing, to help find ways to better treat and understand the disease.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R21'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UT SOUTHWESTERN MEDICAL CENTER (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (DALLAS, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11093550 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the pertussis toxin, produced by Bordetella pertussis, binds to and affects different cell types, particularly lymphocytes and respiratory epithelial cells. Using advanced techniques like CRISPR/Cas9 genome-wide knockout screening, the study aims to identify specific genes and glycan structures that influence the toxin's binding and internalization. By understanding these interactions, researchers hope to uncover the mechanisms behind the severity of whooping cough and potentially develop targeted therapies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children under 11 years old who are at risk for or have been diagnosed with pertussis.
Not a fit: Patients who are older than 11 years or those who have not been exposed to Bordetella pertussis may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for whooping cough and better understanding of how to prevent severe symptoms in affected children.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of this research is novel, similar studies have successfully identified toxin interactions in other bacterial infections.
Where this research is happening
DALLAS, UNITED STATES
- UT SOUTHWESTERN MEDICAL CENTER — DALLAS, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: KOHLER, JENNIFER J — UT SOUTHWESTERN MEDICAL CENTER
- Study coordinator: KOHLER, JENNIFER J
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.
Conditions: B pertussis infection, B. pertussis infection