Investigating the effects of a specific protein from bacteria on gut health
Official title: Genotoxicity and immunogenicity of the uropathogenic specific protein (USP) in the gut
Funded at University of Puerto Rico Med Sciences · NIH-11061081 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a protein from certain E. coli bacteria that might harm the gut, and it's for people interested in how this protein affects tiny lab-grown versions of their intestines, helping researchers learn more about gut health and the immune response.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Puerto Rico Med Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Juan, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2024 |
| Project end | February 29, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $151,306 |
| NIH project number | 5R16GM153691-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11061081 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of urinary tract infections or gastrointestinal issues related to bacterial pathogens.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have any gastrointestinal disorders or a history of urinary tract infections may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on a protein called uropathogenic specific protein (USP) found in certain strains of E. coli, which may cause damage to the gut. The study aims to understand how this protein affects patient-derived intestinal organoids, which are miniaturized versions of the intestine created from patient cells. Researchers will explore the toxicity of USP, how it enters these organoids, and whether its presence in fecal samples is linked to an immune response. The work will be conducted by students, providing them with hands-on research experience.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and management of intestinal disorders linked to bacterial infections.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific investigation of USP in the gut is novel, similar studies have shown that bacterial proteins can significantly impact gut health.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Puerto Rico Med Sciences
San Juan, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Baerga-Ortiz, Abel J — University of Puerto Rico Med Sciences
- Study coordinator: Baerga-Ortiz, Abel J
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.