Understanding how a toxin from Group B Streptococcus is regulated
Official title: Genetic screen to define the regulation of beta-hemolysin toxin expression in Streptococcus agalactiae
Funded at University of Kentucky · NIH-10844641 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a harmful toxin made by Group B Streptococcus (GBS) works, especially in people who are more at risk of getting sick, and aims to find new ways to prevent these infections by understanding the genes that control the toxin's production.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Kentucky NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Lexington, United States) |
| Project start | May 19, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $229,500 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI178652-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10844641 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are elderly individuals, immunocompromised patients, and pregnant women who may be at risk for GBS infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are healthy adults without any risk factors for GBS infections may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the regulation of a specific toxin produced by Group B Streptococcus (GBS), which can cause serious infections in vulnerable populations. By developing new culture media and utilizing advanced genetic screening techniques, the researchers aim to identify genetic factors that influence the expression of this toxin. The study employs methods such as RNA sequencing and metabolomics to explore how GBS adapts its toxin production based on environmental conditions. This work could lead to new strategies for preventing GBS infections.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of new treatments that inhibit GBS infections, particularly in at-risk populations.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of this research is novel, similar studies have shown promise in understanding bacterial toxin regulation and developing targeted therapies.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Kentucky
Lexington, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Korotkova, Natalia — University of Kentucky
- Study coordinator: Korotkova, Natalia
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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.