Understanding how Anaplasma bacteria infect cells
The roles of Anaplasma phagocytophilum surface proteins in infection
This research explores how the Anaplasma bacteria, which cause a serious tickborne illness called HGA, attach to and enter human cells.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R37 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Virginia Commonwealth University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Richmond, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11125850 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Human granulocytic anaplasmosis (HGA) is a serious tickborne disease that is becoming more common in the United States. It's caused by a bacteria called Anaplasma phagocytophilum, which needs to get inside our cells to survive and make us sick. Our team is working to understand how these bacteria attach to and invade human cells. By identifying the specific parts of the bacteria that help them stick to cells, we hope to find new ways to stop the infection.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not directly involve patient participation but aims to benefit anyone at risk of or suffering from Human Granulocytic Anaplasmosis (HGA).
Not a fit: Patients not affected by Human Granulocytic Anaplasmosis (HGA) would not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatments or vaccines that prevent Anaplasma phagocytophilum from infecting people and causing HGA.
How similar studies have performed: Previous work by this team has successfully identified key bacterial components involved in infection, providing a strong foundation for this ongoing research.
Where this research is happening
Richmond, United States
- Virginia Commonwealth University — Richmond, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Carlyon, Jason a — Virginia Commonwealth University
- Study coordinator: Carlyon, Jason a
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.