Investigating the role of specific E. coli strains in causing diarrhea in adults in Seattle
Official title: The molecular epidemiology of enteropathogenic (EPEC) and enteroaggregative (EAEC) Escherichia coli among adult patients in Seattle
Funded at University of Washington · NIH-10862184 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain types of E. coli bacteria can cause stomach illnesses in adults, especially in the U.S., by testing stool samples from people with gastroenteritis to help improve how we diagnose and treat these infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project start | August 8, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $168,145 |
| NIH project number | 1K23AI182462-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10862184 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation include adults experiencing acute or chronic diarrhea, particularly those with unexplained gastrointestinal symptoms.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with gastrointestinal issues caused by non-bacterial pathogens or those who do not reside in the Seattle area may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how enteropathogenic (EPEC) and enteroaggregative (EAEC) strains of E. coli contribute to gastrointestinal illness in adults, particularly in high-income countries like the United States. By utilizing advanced multiplex PCR technology, the study aims to identify these bacteria in stool samples from patients experiencing gastroenteritis. The research will include both retrospective analysis of existing data and prospective collection of new samples to clarify the clinical significance of these pathogens in adult populations. This could lead to improved diagnostic and treatment strategies for gastrointestinal infections.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance the understanding of gastrointestinal infections in adults, leading to better diagnosis and treatment options.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies in Europe have shown that EPEC is a common pathogen in adults with gastroenteritis, indicating that this research builds on established findings.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Washington
Seattle, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tansarli, Giannoula — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Tansarli, Giannoula
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.