Understanding how a bacterium causes disease in the gut

Toxin B receptor mediated events in Clostridioides difficile disease

NIH-funded research University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr · NIH-11035103

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 typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Oklahoma City, United States)
Project IDNIH-11035103 on NIH RePORTER

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.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients who have experienced antibiotic-associated diarrhea or have a dysbiotic gut microbiome due to various medical treatments.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have a history of C. difficile infections or related gastrointestinal issues may not benefit from this research.

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 performed: 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

Oklahoma City, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions bacterial disease treatmentbacterial infectious disease treatment
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.