Investigating how a specific lipid affects the behavior of a harmful bacterium.
The roles of ceramide and its derivatives in A. phagocytophilum pathogenesis
This study is looking at how a specific fat in our cells affects the growth and spread of a germ called Anaplasma phagocytophilum, which can make people sick, to help find better ways to treat infections caused by it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Virginia Commonwealth University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Richmond, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11111399 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the interactions between the bacterium Anaplasma phagocytophilum and the host's cells, particularly how a lipid called ceramide-1-phosphate influences the bacterium's ability to grow and spread within the body. The researchers are exploring the signaling pathways activated by this lipid, which may lead to changes in cell structure and function. By studying these mechanisms, the research aims to uncover new insights into how this bacterium causes disease and how it can be targeted for treatment.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with human granulocytic anaplasmosis or those at risk of infection.
Not a fit: Patients with other unrelated infections or conditions that do not involve Anaplasma phagocytophilum may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating human granulocytic anaplasmosis, potentially improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific role of ceramide-1-phosphate in this context is novel, similar research has shown that targeting microbial-host interactions can lead to significant advancements in understanding infectious diseases.
Where this research is happening
Richmond, United States
- Virginia Commonwealth University — Richmond, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Carlyon, Jason a — Virginia Commonwealth University
- Study coordinator: Carlyon, Jason a
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.