Investigating how E. coli overcomes natural defenses in the vagina
How E. coli Acid Response Mechanisms Breach Colonization Resistance in the Vagina
This study is looking at how a certain type of E. coli can get past the good bacteria in the vagina, which usually help keep infections away, and it aims to find ways to prevent these infections from happening.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10873899 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores how a specific type of E. coli, known as extra-intestinal pathogenic E. coli (ExPEC), can bypass the protective effects of beneficial bacteria in the vagina. The study focuses on the mechanisms that allow ExPEC to survive in acidic environments and how it interacts with vaginal epithelial cells. By examining these interactions, researchers aim to understand the factors that contribute to E. coli infections and develop strategies to prevent them. The approach includes both laboratory experiments and analysis of bacterial behavior in controlled environments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who experience recurrent E. coli infections or are at risk for such infections.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have a history of E. coli infections or related urogenital issues may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new methods for preventing E. coli infections in the urogenital tract.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in understanding bacterial resistance mechanisms, making this approach promising but still novel in this specific context.
Where this research is happening
Nashville, United States
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center — Nashville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hadjifrangiskou, Maria — Vanderbilt University Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Hadjifrangiskou, Maria
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.