Investigating how outer membrane vesicles from E. coli contribute to severe kidney disease.
Outer Membrane Vesicles in Shiga Toxin-Mediated Inflammatory and Thrombotic Responses Leading to Systemic Disease
This study is looking at how tiny bubbles made by a harmful bacteria called E. coli can cause serious kidney problems and other health issues, and it's for anyone interested in understanding how this bacteria affects the body, especially the kidneys.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Tufts University Boston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10881901 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) produced by Enterohemorrhagic E. coli (EHEC) can lead to serious kidney damage and systemic disease. By examining the interaction of these OMVs with kidney cells and inflammatory cells, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms by which Shiga toxin enters the bloodstream and affects organ function. The research employs animal models to simulate the disease process and assess the inflammatory responses triggered by these vesicles.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced severe gastrointestinal symptoms or complications related to EHEC infections.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have a history of EHEC infection or related gastrointestinal diseases may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) caused by EHEC infections.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of studying OMVs in this context is relatively novel, similar research has shown promise in understanding bacterial pathogenesis and its effects on human health.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Tufts University Boston — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Leong, John M — Tufts University Boston
- Study coordinator: Leong, John M
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.