Understanding how a specific protein helps bacteria cause pneumonic plague
Defining the Role of the Plasminogen Activator Protease in the Early Events that Establish Primary Pneumonic Plague
['FUNDING_R01'] · EAST CAROLINA UNIVERSITY · NIH-11072999
This study is looking at how a specific protein from the bacteria that causes pneumonic plague helps it hide from the body's defenses in the lungs, and it aims to find new ways to treat this serious infection.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | EAST CAROLINA UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (GREENVILLE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11072999 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the Yersinia Plasminogen activator protease (Pla) in the early stages of pneumonic plague, a severe lung infection caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis. The study aims to understand how Pla helps the bacteria evade the immune response in the lungs, allowing it to replicate before symptoms appear. Researchers will create and test mutant versions of Pla to see how it affects the bacteria's ability to adhere to immune cells and trigger immune responses. This work could provide insights into new treatment strategies for pneumonic plague.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research would include individuals at risk of exposure to Yersinia pestis, such as those in endemic areas or with occupational exposure.
Not a fit: Patients who are not at risk for pneumonic plague or those who have already been diagnosed and are symptomatic may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for pneumonic plague, potentially reducing mortality rates associated with this deadly infection.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific role of Pla in pneumonic plague is being explored in this research, similar studies on bacterial virulence factors have shown promise in understanding and treating infectious diseases.
Where this research is happening
GREENVILLE, UNITED STATES
- EAST CAROLINA UNIVERSITY — GREENVILLE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: PECHOUS, ROGER D — EAST CAROLINA UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: PECHOUS, ROGER D
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.