Understanding how Brucella bacteria communicate and cause disease
Defining the atypical quorum sensing system of Brucella spp.
This study is looking at how Brucella bacteria communicate and survive inside immune cells, which could help us find new ways to treat and prevent brucellosis, a disease that can affect both people and animals, especially since current treatments aren't always effective.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Virginia Polytechnic Inst and St Univ NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Blacksburg, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11006294 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the unique communication system of Brucella bacteria, which can infect both animals and humans, leading to serious health issues. The study focuses on how these bacteria survive and replicate within immune cells, which is crucial for their ability to cause disease. By exploring the atypical quorum sensing mechanisms of Brucella, the research aims to identify new targets for treatment and prevention, particularly since current antibiotic therapies are often ineffective and there is no vaccine available for humans. Patients may benefit from insights gained that could lead to better treatment options for brucellosis.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals who have been diagnosed with brucellosis or are at risk of exposure to Brucella through contact with infected animals.
Not a fit: Patients who are not at risk of exposure to Brucella or do not have a diagnosis related to this bacterial infection may not receive any benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments and potentially a vaccine for infections caused by Brucella bacteria.
How similar studies have performed: While the quorum sensing mechanisms of many bacteria have been studied, the atypical nature of Brucella's system makes this research novel and potentially groundbreaking.
Where this research is happening
Blacksburg, United States
- Virginia Polytechnic Inst and St Univ — Blacksburg, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Caswell, Clayton C — Virginia Polytechnic Inst and St Univ
- Study coordinator: Caswell, Clayton C
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.