Understanding how a toxin from Helicobacter pylori binds to human cells
Official title: The Helicobacter pylori VacA Receptor Binding Site
Funded at University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign · NIH-11030802 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a toxin from the Helicobacter pylori bacteria interacts with our cells, which could help us understand why some people get serious health problems, like stomach cancer, from this infection.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Champaign, United States) |
| Project start | February 7, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $214,135 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI178689-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11030802 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with chronic Helicobacter pylori infections, particularly those at risk for gastric cancer.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have Helicobacter pylori infections or those with other unrelated gastrointestinal conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the molecular mechanisms by which the Vacuolating Cytotoxin (VacA) from Helicobacter pylori interacts with human cells. By identifying specific regions of the VacA protein that determine its binding to host cells, the study aims to clarify how chronic infection with this bacterium can lead to severe health issues, including gastric cancer. The research will utilize advanced biochemical techniques to analyze the differences between two variants of the VacA toxin, which may influence disease severity and patient outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and potential treatments for gastric cancer linked to Helicobacter pylori infections.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results in understanding bacterial toxins and their interactions with host cells, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Champaign, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Blanke, Steven R. — University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
- Study coordinator: Blanke, Steven R.
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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.