Understanding how a bacterium causes disease in the gut
Official title: Toxin B receptor mediated events in Clostridioides difficile disease
Funded at University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr · NIH-11035103 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking into how the bacteria Clostridioides difficile makes people sick by examining its toxins and how they affect cells, especially in those whose gut health is weakened, like after taking antibiotics, to find new ways to help treat the infection.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Oklahoma City, United States) |
| Project start | February 5, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $36,574 |
| NIH project number | 5F31AI179208-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11035103 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients who have experienced antibiotic-associated diarrhea or have a dysbiotic gut microbiome due to various medical treatments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a history of C. difficile infections or related gastrointestinal issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which the bacterium Clostridioides difficile causes disease, particularly focusing on its toxins and their interactions with host cells. It aims to understand how these toxins enter cells and disrupt normal functions, especially in patients with compromised gut health due to antibiotics or other factors. By studying the specific receptors involved in this process, the research seeks to uncover potential therapeutic targets to mitigate the effects of the infection.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for patients suffering from C. difficile infections, potentially reducing the incidence of antibiotic-associated diarrhea.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding bacterial interactions with host cells, indicating that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr
Oklahoma City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Doyle, Dena Annie — University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr
- Study coordinator: Doyle, Dena Annie
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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.