Understanding how bacteria spread within human cells
Official title: Spatiotemporal Regulation of Protrusion Dynamics During Intracellular Bacterial Dissemination
Funded at Harvard Medical School · NIH-10889263 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a harmful germ called Listeria spreads between human cells and is focusing on a specific protein in our cells that helps the bacteria move; understanding this could help us find better ways to prevent or treat infections caused by Listeria.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Harvard Medical School NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | July 17, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $252,214 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI173602-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10889263 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include newborns, pregnant individuals, and immunocompromised patients who are at higher risk for listeriosis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not at risk for listeriosis or those with healthy immune systems may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the bacterium Listeria monocytogenes spreads from one human cell to another by utilizing a process that involves the host's actin proteins. The study focuses on a specific host protein called Abi1, which is crucial for the bacteria's ability to move and infect neighboring cells. By examining different types of human cells with altered levels of Abi1, researchers aim to uncover the mechanisms behind bacterial dissemination. This could lead to insights into how to prevent or treat infections caused by this dangerous pathogen.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing and treating infections caused by Listeria and similar intracellular bacteria.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding bacterial infections through similar cellular mechanisms, indicating that this approach has potential for impactful findings.
Where this research is happening
-
Harvard Medical School
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Higgins, Darren E — Harvard Medical School
- Study coordinator: Higgins, Darren E
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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.