Investigating how lactate affects the harmful effects of Campylobacter jejuni

Role of the gut metabolite lactate on Campylobacter jejuni pathogenicity

['FUNDING_R21'] · MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY · NIH-10988285

This study is looking at how a substance made by our gut called lactate affects the harmful effects of a bacteria called Campylobacter jejuni, which can cause stomach infections, and it's using young ferrets to help find new ways to treat infections that don't respond to antibiotics.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorMICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (EAST LANSING, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10988285 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how the gut metabolite lactate influences the pathogenicity of Campylobacter jejuni, a major cause of bacterial gastroenteritis. The study aims to explore the dynamics of C. jejuni infections, particularly during the inflammatory response, using a young ferret model that closely mimics human infection. By examining the changes in gut metabolites and the behavior of the bacteria during infection, the research seeks to identify alternative therapeutic approaches to combat antibiotic-resistant strains of C. jejuni.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing symptoms of gastroenteritis, particularly those with infections caused by Campylobacter jejuni.

Not a fit: Patients with gastroenteritis caused by other pathogens or those who do not exhibit symptoms related to Campylobacter jejuni may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment strategies for patients suffering from gastroenteritis caused by Campylobacter jejuni.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in understanding bacterial infections through similar approaches, but the specific role of lactate in C. jejuni pathogenicity is a novel area of investigation.

Where this research is happening

EAST LANSING, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome, Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, acute infection

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.