Understanding how a bacterial toxin damages DNA and its link to cancer
Official title: Molecular Basis for the Two-Stage Disassembly of Cytolethal Distending Toxin
Funded at University of Central Florida · NIH-11114069 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a toxin from certain bacteria can harm DNA in human cells, which might lead to cancer, and it's for anyone interested in understanding how this process works so we can find better ways to treat toxin-related cancers.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Central Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Orlando, United States) |
| Project start | June 12, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $72,178 |
| NIH project number | 5R03AI185325-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11114069 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with cancers linked to bacterial infections or those interested in the molecular mechanisms of cancer development.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with cancers not associated with bacterial toxins or those without any cancer diagnosis may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the molecular mechanisms by which the cytolethal distending toxin (CDT) from certain bacteria damages DNA in human cells, potentially leading to cancer. The project focuses on the two-stage disassembly process of the toxin, which involves the separation of its components as it moves through the cell. By studying how the toxin enters cells and interacts with cellular structures, researchers aim to uncover critical details about its function and the conditions that activate its harmful effects. This knowledge could provide insights into the development of new therapeutic strategies against toxin-related cancers.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and treatment options for cancers associated with bacterial infections.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific two-stage mechanism of CDT is novel, similar research on bacterial toxins has shown promise in understanding their roles in cancer development.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Central Florida
Orlando, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Teter, Kenneth R — University of Central Florida
- Study coordinator: Teter, Kenneth 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.