Investigating how Group B Streptococcus interacts with its host
Official title: A Group B Streptococcus ordered CRISPR interference library to investigate host-pathogen interactions
Funded at University of Texas Dallas · NIH-11302596 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a common germ called Group B Streptococcus (GBS) behaves in our bodies, especially in newborns and people with weakened immune systems, to find new ways to prevent infections, like possibly creating vaccines.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Dallas NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Richardson, United States) |
| Project start | June 10, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $78,000 |
| NIH project number | 7R03AI185593-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11302596 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are newborns, pregnant women, and immunocompromised individuals who are at higher risk for GBS infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are healthy adults without risk factors for GBS infections may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how Group B Streptococcus (GBS), a common bacterium that can cause serious infections, interacts with the human body. Using advanced CRISPR interference technology, researchers will create a library that allows them to selectively turn down the activity of specific genes in GBS. This approach aims to uncover the mechanisms behind GBS colonization and its potential to cause disease, particularly in vulnerable populations like newborns and immunocompromised individuals. The findings could lead to new strategies for preventing GBS infections, including the development of vaccines.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of effective vaccines and treatments for infections caused by Group B Streptococcus.
How similar studies have gone: Other research using CRISPR technology has shown promise in understanding bacterial pathogenesis, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Dallas
Richardson, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kim, Brandon Jonathan — University of Texas Dallas
- Study coordinator: Kim, Brandon Jonathan
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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.