Investigating how a protein helps bacteria spread in the body
Official title: Synaptopodin and its role in Shigella flexneri intercellular spread
Funded at University of Colorado Denver · NIH-10997892 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called synaptopodin helps the bacteria that cause severe diarrhea in kids move between cells in the colon, with the hope of finding new ways to treat these infections and keep children healthier.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $76,328 |
| NIH project number | 1F32AI186544-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10997892 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children under the age of 11 who are at risk of or suffering from Shigella infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are adults or do not have Shigella infections may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how the protein synaptopodin (Synpo) aids the spread of the bacteria Shigella flexneri, which causes severe diarrhea in children. The study examines the molecular mechanisms by which Synpo interacts with the actin cytoskeleton to facilitate bacterial movement between cells in the colon. By analyzing how Shigella manipulates host cell structures, the research aims to uncover potential targets for new treatments to combat this infection. The findings could provide insights into preventing the severe effects of Shigella infections in young patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing and treating Shigella infections, reducing the incidence of severe diarrhea and its long-term complications in children.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that targeting bacterial mechanisms of spread can be effective, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Colorado Denver
Aurora, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hamilton, Desmond J — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Hamilton, Desmond J
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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.