Understanding how bacteria affect protein production in human cells

Role of HSC70 in protein synthesis

NIH-funded research University of California, San Francisco · NIH-11076787

This study is looking at how a specific bacteria, Legionella pneumophila, tricks our cells into changing how they make proteins, which could help us understand how infections affect our bodies.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Francisco NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Francisco, United States)
Project IDNIH-11076787 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how certain bacteria, specifically Legionella pneumophila, manipulate the protein synthesis processes in human cells. By examining the role of a protein called HSC70 and its phosphorylation by bacterial effectors, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms that bacteria use to hijack cellular functions. The research involves laboratory experiments where cells are treated with alkylating agents to observe changes in protein synthesis and cellular responses. This could provide insights into how bacterial infections disrupt normal cellular activities.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with infections caused by intracellular bacteria or those at risk of such infections.

Not a fit: Patients with non-infectious conditions or those not affected by bacterial pathogens may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating bacterial infections by targeting the mechanisms that bacteria use to manipulate host cell functions.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in understanding bacterial manipulation of host cell processes, indicating that this approach has potential for significant findings.

Where this research is happening

San Francisco, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.