Investigating how androgens affect E. coli toxicity in kidney infections.
Official title: Androgen Enhancement of E. coli Hemolysin Toxicity during Pyelonephritis.
Funded at Washington University · NIH-10823500 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how male hormones might make kidney infections caused by certain bacteria worse, and it aims to help us find better ways to treat people who have urinary tract infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $35,482 |
| NIH project number | 1F31AI176711-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10823500 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are males and androgen-exposed females who are experiencing recurrent urinary tract infections or pyelonephritis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have urinary tract infections or those with infections caused by non-UPEC strains may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of androgens in enhancing the toxicity of Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) during kidney infections known as pyelonephritis. By using a specialized mouse model, the study aims to explore how the alpha-hemolysin toxin produced by UPEC contributes to severe kidney damage in the presence of androgens. The research will involve examining the mechanisms of UPEC pathogenesis and its impact on kidney health, which could lead to better understanding and treatment options for patients suffering from urinary tract infections.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies for patients with pyelonephritis, particularly those affected by UPEC infections.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has indicated that understanding the role of toxins like alpha-hemolysin in UPEC infections can lead to significant insights, suggesting that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kuhn, Hunter W — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Kuhn, Hunter W
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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.