Targeting specific signaling pathways to combat Lyme disease
Targeting Cyclic Dinucleotide Signaling Pathways to Interrupt the Nature Cycle of Borrelia burgdorferi
This study is exploring new ways to fight Lyme disease by finding methods that can stop the bacteria that cause it from surviving, without using traditional antibiotics, which can be harmful to the environment.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Indiana University Indianapolis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Indianapolis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10839355 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates innovative methods to combat Lyme disease by targeting specific bacterial signaling pathways in Borrelia burgdorferi, the bacteria responsible for the illness. The approach focuses on using compounds that can disrupt the bacteria's survival mechanisms without relying on traditional antibiotics, which are unsuitable for environmental use. By understanding and manipulating the bacterial second messengers, the research aims to develop new strategies to reduce infection rates in both ticks and rodent hosts. This could lead to safer and more effective ways to manage Lyme disease transmission.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living in areas where Lyme disease is prevalent, particularly those who may have been exposed to ticks.
Not a fit: Patients who are not at risk for Lyme disease or who have already been diagnosed and treated may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments or prevention strategies for Lyme disease, reducing the incidence of this tick-borne illness.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting bacterial signaling pathways, suggesting that this approach could be effective in managing Lyme disease.
Where this research is happening
Indianapolis, United States
- Indiana University Indianapolis — Indianapolis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yang, X. Frank — Indiana University Indianapolis
- Study coordinator: Yang, X. Frank
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.