Investigating how bacteria can kill harmful amoebas that infect the brain
Determining the mechanism of cell death of small molecules produced by Pseudomonas aeruginosa against Acanthamoeba castellanii
This study is looking at how a common bacteria can create tiny molecules that kill a harmful amoeba that causes serious brain infections, with the hope of finding new treatments to help patients affected by these infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10826918 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how the bacteria Pseudomonas aeruginosa can produce small molecules that are lethal to the amoeba Acanthamoeba castellanii, which is known to cause severe brain infections. The researchers have found that certain compounds secreted by P. aeruginosa can effectively kill these amoebas without harming human cells. By isolating and identifying these small molecules, the study aims to develop new treatments for infections caused by Acanthamoeba. Patients may benefit from this research if effective treatments are discovered that can combat these dangerous infections.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have been diagnosed with infections caused by Acanthamoeba castellanii.
Not a fit: Patients with infections caused by other pathogens or those not affected by Acanthamoeba may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic options for patients suffering from life-threatening amoebic infections.
How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using bacterial compounds to target amoebas is innovative, similar strategies have shown promise in other contexts, suggesting potential for success.
Where this research is happening
New Haven, United States
- Yale University — New Haven, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Colón Ríos, Rebecca Isabel — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Colón Ríos, Rebecca Isabel
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.