Understanding how a bacterium affects immune responses in scrub typhus
Multifunctional roles of an Orientia tsutsugamushi nucleomodulin
This study is looking at how a germ that causes scrub typhus affects the immune system, focusing on a special protein that helps the germ survive inside our cells, which could help us find new ways to treat the disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Virginia Commonwealth University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Richmond, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10974467 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which the bacterium Orientia tsutsugamushi, responsible for scrub typhus, modulates the immune responses of infected cells. By focusing on a specific protein called Ank13, which interacts with host cell processes, the study aims to uncover how this bacterium survives and thrives within immune cells. The approach includes analyzing gene expression changes in cells expressing Ank13 and identifying its interactions with host proteins. This could lead to a better understanding of the disease and potential therapeutic targets.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have been diagnosed with scrub typhus or are at risk of infection.
Not a fit: Patients with other unrelated infections or conditions that do not involve scrub typhus may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating scrub typhus and improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific mechanisms of Ank proteins in scrub typhus are not well-studied, similar approaches in understanding host-pathogen interactions have shown promise in other infectious diseases.
Where this research is happening
Richmond, United States
- Virginia Commonwealth University — Richmond, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Allen, Paige — Virginia Commonwealth University
- Study coordinator: Allen, Paige
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.