Understanding how C. difficile spores sense signals to germinate and cause infection
Official title: Pseudoprotease-mediated regulation of germinant sensing in Clostridioides difficile
Funded at Tufts University Boston · NIH-10997790 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how Clostridioides difficile spores sense signals in the gut that make them wake up and cause infection, focusing on two special proteins that help with this process, which could lead to better ways to prevent or treat infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Tufts University Boston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $45,162 |
| NIH project number | 1F31AI186517-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10997790 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced recurrent Clostridioides difficile infections or are at high risk for such infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a history of Clostridioides difficile infections or are not at risk for these infections may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which Clostridioides difficile spores detect specific signals in the gut that trigger their germination. The study focuses on two soluble pseudoproteases, CspA and CspC, which play crucial roles in sensing these signals and activating processes that lead to infection. By examining the interactions and structures of these proteins, the research aims to uncover how C. difficile integrates different signals to initiate germination. This understanding could provide insights into preventing or treating infections caused by this bacterium.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating Clostridioides difficile infections.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding germination mechanisms in other spore-forming bacteria, but the specific approach for C. difficile is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Tufts University Boston
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mcnellis, Morgan — Tufts University Boston
- Study coordinator: Mcnellis, Morgan
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.