Understanding how a bacteria causes infections and its spore formation
Official title: Identification of CodY-Regulated Factors that Control Sporulation in Clostridioides difficile
Funded at Emory University · NIH-10978198 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a harmful germ called Clostridioides difficile makes spores that can cause serious infections, focusing on a protein called CodY that helps the germ decide when to make these spores, with the goal of finding new ways to prevent or treat these infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $48,974 |
| NIH project number | 5F31AI179158-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10978198 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced or are at risk for C. difficile infections, particularly those with recurrent infections or severe gastrointestinal symptoms.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a history of C. difficile infections or are not at risk for such infections may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which Clostridioides difficile, a harmful bacterium, forms spores that can lead to severe infections in humans. The study focuses on a specific protein called CodY, which regulates the bacteria's ability to sporulate in response to nutrient availability. By examining how CodY influences sporulation, researchers aim to identify potential targets for new treatments that could prevent or reduce C. difficile infections. The approach includes analyzing genetic data and the bacteria's response to different conditions in the laboratory.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing and treating C. difficile infections, potentially reducing the incidence of severe diarrhea and colitis.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that targeting bacterial sporulation mechanisms can be effective in managing infections, suggesting that this approach may yield promising results.
Where this research is happening
-
Emory University
Atlanta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Monteiro, Marcos Paulo — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Monteiro, Marcos Paulo
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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.