Understanding how bacteria secrete proteins to invade hosts
Molecular Mechanisms of the Type I Secretion System from Bacterial Pathogens
This study is looking at how certain bacteria use a special system to send out proteins that help them infect people and avoid the immune system, and it aims to understand the details of this process to help find better ways to fight these infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11095501 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the molecular mechanisms behind the Type I secretion system (T1SS) used by bacterial pathogens to secrete proteins that help them invade hosts and evade immune responses. By utilizing advanced techniques like cryo-electron microscopy and bioinformatics, the research aims to uncover how these bacteria transport large protein substrates across their membranes. The findings could provide insights into the structural and energetic aspects of this process, which is crucial for bacterial virulence.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals affected by infections caused by Gram-negative bacteria, such as Bordetella pertussis.
Not a fit: Patients with infections caused by Gram-positive bacteria or those not currently experiencing bacterial infections may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing and treating bacterial infections by targeting the secretion mechanisms of pathogens.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in understanding bacterial secretion systems, but the specific mechanisms of T1SS remain less explored, making this a novel investigation.
Where this research is happening
New Haven, United States
- Yale University — New Haven, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mi, Wei — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Mi, Wei
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.