Understanding how a protein affects the virulence of Brucella bacteria
Official title: Determining the molecular basis of gene silencing by MucR and defining its role in Brucella virulence
Funded at East Carolina University · NIH-10888390 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a protein called MucR in Brucella bacteria, which cause a disease that can spread from animals to humans, to understand how it helps the bacteria become more harmful and to find ways to treat the illness better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | East Carolina University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Greenville, United States) |
| Project start | July 14, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $581,515 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI172822-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10888390 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living in areas where brucellosis is endemic or those who have been exposed to Brucella bacteria.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have exposure to Brucella or live in regions where the disease is not prevalent may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the MucR protein in the virulence of Brucella species, which are responsible for a significant zoonotic disease. By employing genetic and biochemical methods, the study aims to uncover how MucR functions as a gene silencer and identify other proteins that counteract its effects. The research will also explore the importance of coordinated regulation of virulence genes for the bacteria's ability to cause disease in animal models. This work could provide insights into potential therapeutic targets for treating brucellosis.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating brucellosis, improving public health outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding gene regulation in other bacterial pathogens, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
East Carolina University
Greenville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Roop, Roy M — East Carolina University
- Study coordinator: Roop, Roy M
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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.