Understanding how bacteria enter immune cells
Official title: Identify new regulators of outer membrane vesicle entry into macrophages
Funded at University of Colorado Denver · NIH-11057183 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how tiny bubbles from certain bacteria get into immune cells called macrophages, and it's trying to find new ways to help treat infections caused by these bacteria, which could lead to better treatments for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | November 18, 2024 |
| Project end | October 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $189,150 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AI183060-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11057183 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals with bacterial infections or those at risk of such infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-bacterial infections or those not affected by immune response issues may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) from Gram-negative bacteria enter macrophages, a type of immune cell. The study uses advanced techniques, including CRISPR genetic screening, to identify new genes that regulate this entry process and the subsequent inflammatory response. By understanding these mechanisms, the research aims to uncover potential targets for therapeutic intervention in bacterial infections. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new treatments for infections caused by these bacteria.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating bacterial infections and improving immune responses.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in identifying mechanisms of bacterial entry into cells, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Colorado Denver
Aurora, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Li, Suzhao — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Li, Suzhao
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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.