Understanding how Bordetella pertussis causes disease and identifying new vaccine targets
Structure, function and antigenicity of B. pertussis virulence factors
This study is looking at how a germ called Bordetella pertussis makes people sick with whooping cough, focusing on a specific toxin that it produces, to help create better vaccines that can protect you from the disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas at Austin NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Austin, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10876301 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which the bacterium Bordetella pertussis causes disease, focusing on a specific toxin called adenylate cyclase toxin (ACT). The study aims to uncover the structural and functional properties of ACT to identify new vaccine antigens that could improve protection against whooping cough. By analyzing how ACT interacts with immune cells, the research seeks to enhance our understanding of the disease process and develop more effective vaccines and therapies. Patients may benefit from advancements in vaccine development that arise from this research.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include infants and young children who are at high risk for severe complications from Bordetella pertussis infection.
Not a fit: Patients who are already fully vaccinated against Bordetella pertussis or those with no risk factors for the disease may not receive direct benefits from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of more effective vaccines against whooping cough, potentially reducing morbidity and mortality associated with the disease.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding the mechanisms of bacterial toxins and has led to successful vaccine developments, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Austin, United States
- University of Texas at Austin — Austin, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mclellan, Jason Scott — University of Texas at Austin
- Study coordinator: Mclellan, Jason Scott
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.