Understanding how bacteria manage and use sterol lipids
Deciphering the molecular mechanisms of sterol lipid trafficking in bacteria
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · STANFORD UNIVERSITY · NIH-11001759
This study is looking at how certain bacteria and archaea use important fats called sterols that help keep their cell membranes healthy, especially focusing on harmful bacteria like Borrelia burgdorferi, to find new ways to treat infections.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | STANFORD UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (STANFORD, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11001759 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the molecular mechanisms by which bacteria and archaea interact with sterol lipids, which are crucial for cell membrane integrity and signaling. The study aims to uncover how these microorganisms acquire and utilize sterols, particularly in relation to pathogenic bacteria like Borrelia burgdorferi. By exploring these interactions, the research seeks to fill a significant knowledge gap and identify potential therapeutic targets for treating infections and related diseases. The methodology includes biochemical assays and bioinformatics approaches to analyze lipid trafficking in these organisms.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals affected by infections caused by pathogenic bacteria or those with cardiometabolic disorders linked to gut microbiota.
Not a fit: Patients with non-bacterial infections or those not affected by cardiometabolic diseases may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating bacterial infections and managing cardiometabolic diseases.
How similar studies have performed: While there has been extensive research on eukaryotic sterol interactions, this investigation into bacterial and archaeal mechanisms is relatively novel and untested.
Where this research is happening
STANFORD, UNITED STATES
- STANFORD UNIVERSITY — STANFORD, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: DASSAMA, LAURA — STANFORD UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: DASSAMA, LAURA
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.