Investigating how a virus affects Lyme disease bacteria
Phage-mediated horizontal gene transfer in Borrelia burgdorferi
This study is looking at how a specific virus helps Lyme disease bacteria share genes, which could make them stronger and help them spread, and it's for anyone interested in understanding more about how Lyme disease is passed from animals to humans.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Montana State University - Bozeman NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Bozeman, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11191306 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of a specific virus, known as ϕBB-1, in the transmission of Lyme disease caused by the bacteria Borrelia burgdorferi. The study aims to explore how this virus facilitates the transfer of genetic material between different strains of the bacteria, which may help them survive and spread. By examining the mechanisms of this viral interaction, researchers hope to uncover new insights into how Lyme disease persists in its animal hosts and how it can be transmitted to humans. The research will involve laboratory experiments to measure gene transfer in tick vectors, which are crucial for the life cycle of the bacteria.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have been diagnosed with Lyme disease or are at risk of infection due to tick exposure.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have Lyme disease or are not exposed to ticks may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing and treating Lyme disease.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific role of the ϕBB-1 phage in Borrelia burgdorferi has not been extensively studied, similar approaches in understanding viral interactions with bacteria have shown promise in other contexts.
Where this research is happening
Bozeman, United States
- Montana State University - Bozeman — Bozeman, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Secor, Patrick R — Montana State University - Bozeman
- Study coordinator: Secor, Patrick R
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.