Understanding how bacteria cause heart valve infections
Role of sialoglycan binding in the pathogenesis of streptococcal endocarditis
This project aims to understand how certain bacteria stick to heart valves, which causes a serious infection called endocarditis.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11141642 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
We are learning how specific bacteria, often found in the mouth, cause serious heart valve infections. These bacteria have special proteins that help them attach to the surface of heart valves and blood cells. We believe that how strongly and where these bacteria stick can either make the infection worse or help the body clear them away. By understanding these sticky interactions, we hope to find new ways to stop these infections.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is relevant for future patients at risk of or suffering from infective endocarditis caused by oral streptococci.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate new treatments or direct clinical intervention would not directly benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating infective endocarditis by targeting how bacteria attach to heart tissues.
How similar studies have performed: Previous findings in animal models have shown that specific bacterial binding mechanisms affect the severity of endocarditis, providing a foundation for this work.
Where this research is happening
Seattle, United States
- University of Washington — Seattle, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Thomas, Wendy E — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Thomas, Wendy E
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.