Understanding how bacterial toxins make holes in cells
Pore Formation by Cholesterol Dependent Cytolysins
This research helps us understand how certain bacterial toxins create holes in cells, which is important for fighting infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R37 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Oklahoma City, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11051240 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This long-running research explores how certain bacterial toxins, called cholesterol-dependent cytolysins, create holes in the membranes of our cells. Researchers are trying to understand the exact steps these toxins take to change from a floating protein to a structure embedded in the cell membrane. This includes looking at how the pore-forming parts assemble and insert themselves, and how specific toxins like listeriolysin O work. By uncovering these fundamental processes, we can better understand how these bacteria cause harm.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not involve direct patient participation or recruitment at this stage.
Not a fit: Patients will not receive direct medical benefit from this basic science research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: A deeper understanding of how these bacterial toxins work could lead to new strategies for developing anti-bacterial agents and treatments for infections.
How similar studies have performed: This long-standing grant has already provided significant insights into the pore-forming mechanisms of these toxins, building on previous successful discoveries.
Where this research is happening
Oklahoma City, United States
- University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr — Oklahoma City, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tweten, Rodney K. — University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr
- Study coordinator: Tweten, Rodney K.
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.