Understanding how bacteria that cause spotted fever interact with our bodies
Mechanisms of SFG Rickettsia-Host Interactions
This project explores how specific bacteria, called SFG Rickettsia, cause serious vascular diseases in people by understanding how they interact with human cells.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts Institute of Technology NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cambridge, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11225223 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Spotted Fever Group (SFG) Rickettsia are bacteria that can cause mild to life-threatening vascular diseases in humans. This project aims to uncover the clever ways these bacteria invade our cells, survive inside them, and spread throughout the body. Researchers believe the bacteria send out special proteins, called effectors, to change how our cells work. By identifying these proteins and understanding their roles, we can learn more about how the disease develops.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not directly involve patient participation at this stage, but future clinical applications would target individuals at risk for or suffering from Spotted Fever Group Rickettsia infections.
Not a fit: Patients not affected by Spotted Fever Group Rickettsia infections would not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to prevent or treat the severe vascular diseases caused by SFG Rickettsia infections.
How similar studies have performed: This project builds on initial discoveries of bacterial proteins and uses novel techniques to identify more, suggesting a blend of established and innovative approaches.
Where this research is happening
Cambridge, United States
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology — Cambridge, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lamason, Rebecca L — Massachusetts Institute of Technology
- Study coordinator: Lamason, Rebecca L
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.