Understanding how Borrelia burgdorferi causes persistent infections
Official title: Genetic basis for persistence of Borrelia burgdorferi
Funded at Columbia University Health Sciences · NIH-10932249 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at why some people still feel unwell after Lyme disease treatment by checking their blood and spinal fluid for clues about the bacteria and the immune system, hoping to find answers that can help those with lingering symptoms.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Columbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | September 20, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $475,701 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI178718-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10932249 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Post-Treatment Lyme Disease Syndrome (PTLDS).
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not been diagnosed with Lyme disease or those without persistent symptoms may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the genetic factors that allow the Borrelia burgdorferi bacteria to persist in the body after treatment. By developing advanced assays, the study aims to analyze blood and cerebrospinal fluid samples from patients with Post-Treatment Lyme Disease Syndrome (PTLDS) to identify specific immune responses and potential biomarkers. The approach includes comprehensive serologic analysis and genome assembly of the bacteria in host tissues, which could provide insights into the biology of persistent infections. This research could ultimately help in understanding why some patients continue to experience symptoms after treatment.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better diagnostic tools and treatments for patients suffering from lingering symptoms of Lyme disease.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in understanding persistent infections in Lyme disease, but this study employs novel assays that have not been widely tested.
Where this research is happening
-
Columbia University Health Sciences
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tokarz, Rafal — Columbia University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Tokarz, Rafal
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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.