Investigating how certain vaginal bacteria affect urinary tract infections in women
Official title: Molecular and genomic basis of the relationship between Gardnerella, bladder exfoliation and E. coli UTI
Funded at Washington University · NIH-11019754 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a type of vaginal bacteria called Gardnerella might affect the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs) caused by E. coli in sexually active women, with the hope of finding better ways to prevent and treat these infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $359,860 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK137964-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11019754 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are sexually active women who experience recurrent urinary tract infections or have been diagnosed with bacterial vaginosis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have urinary tract infections or those who are not sexually active may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the connection between the vaginal bacteria Gardnerella and urinary tract infections (UTIs) caused by E. coli in women. It aims to understand how these bacteria influence UTI risk, particularly in sexually active women who may experience changes in their vaginal flora. By using a mouse model, the study examines how Gardnerella can lead to bladder cell damage and increase the likelihood of recurrent UTIs. The findings could help identify new prevention and treatment strategies for women suffering from UTIs.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prevention and treatment options for women at risk of recurrent urinary tract infections.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has indicated a link between vaginal bacteria and urinary tract infections, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gilbert, Nicole Marie — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Gilbert, Nicole Marie
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.