New treatment to prevent kidney failure from E. coli infections
Immune-based therapy against STEC intoxication and HUS
This study is testing a new treatment using special antibodies to help prevent hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) in people who have been exposed to harmful E. coli, and it’s designed to be easy and safe to give with just one shot.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Tufts University Boston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10517289 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates a novel immune-based therapy aimed at preventing hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) caused by Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC). The approach utilizes camelid-derived antibodies delivered through mRNA nanoparticles, allowing for a simplified and cost-effective treatment that can be administered via a single intramuscular injection. This method is designed to be safe and effective for patients who have been exposed to STEC or are experiencing symptoms like bloody diarrhea. The goal is to provide a new therapeutic option where none currently exists, especially since traditional antibiotics are not suitable for these infections.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals, particularly children and young adults, who have been exposed to STEC or are presenting with symptoms of STEC infection.
Not a fit: Patients who are not experiencing STEC infections or related symptoms may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a safe and effective treatment option for patients at risk of developing severe complications from STEC infections.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise with similar immune-based therapies, particularly using monoclonal antibodies, but this approach with camelid-derived antibodies is innovative and less tested.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Tufts University Boston — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tzipori, Saul R — Tufts University Boston
- Study coordinator: Tzipori, Saul R
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.