Understanding how bacteria acquire iron from host cells
Molecular basis of metal acquisition by an intravacuolar pathogen
This study is looking at how certain harmful bacteria, like Legionella, get the iron they need to survive from our cells, which could help us find new ways to treat infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Tufts University Boston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10878901 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how pathogenic bacteria, specifically those that grow within vacuoles, acquire iron from host cells, which is crucial for their survival and ability to cause disease. The study focuses on the MavN protein from Legionella pneumophila, which is known to facilitate iron access by inserting into host membranes. By utilizing advanced techniques, the researchers aim to uncover the molecular mechanisms of iron transport and how host cells limit iron availability to these pathogens. This work could lead to a better understanding of bacterial infections and potential new therapeutic strategies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from infections caused by intravacuolar pathogens, such as Legionella pneumophila.
Not a fit: Patients with infections caused by extracellular pathogens or those not affected by iron acquisition mechanisms may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that disrupt iron acquisition by harmful bacteria, potentially improving patient outcomes in bacterial infections.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific focus on intravacuolar pathogens is less explored, previous research on bacterial iron acquisition has shown promising results in understanding and treating bacterial infections.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Tufts University Boston — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Isberg, Ralph R. — Tufts University Boston
- Study coordinator: Isberg, Ralph R.
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.