Understanding how a specific protein from a common oral bacteria contributes to diseases.
Investigation of FadA adhesin from Fusobacterium nucleatum
This study is looking at a protein from a bacteria that can cause gum disease and colorectal cancer to find out how it helps the bacteria invade our cells and form harmful clusters, with the hope of discovering new ways to prevent or treat these health issues, which could help patients improve their overall health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Columbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10899621 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates FadA, a protein from the bacteria Fusobacterium nucleatum, which is linked to various diseases including periodontal disease and colorectal cancer. The study aims to understand how FadA helps the bacteria invade human cells and its role in forming biofilms that can lead to infections. By examining the properties of FadA, researchers hope to uncover new therapeutic targets that could prevent or treat conditions associated with this pathogen. Patients may benefit from insights gained about the relationship between oral health and systemic diseases.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals suffering from periodontal disease, Alzheimer's disease, or colorectal cancer.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to Fusobacterium nucleatum or its associated diseases may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for diseases linked to Fusobacterium nucleatum, improving patient outcomes in conditions like Alzheimer's and colorectal cancer.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that targeting bacterial virulence factors can lead to significant advancements in treating infections, suggesting potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Columbia University Health Sciences — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Han, Yiping — Columbia University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Han, Yiping
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.