Understanding how Campylobacter jejuni causes intestinal infections

Integration of nutrient availability, TCA cycle activity, and colonization factor expression in Campylobacter jejuni

NIH-funded research University of Iowa · NIH-11127930

This study is looking at how the bacteria Campylobacter jejuni, which can make people sick from food, manages to live in our intestines and cause inflammation, with a special focus on a protein called HeuR that helps it adapt to our gut environment, so we can find better ways to treat infections.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Iowa NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Iowa City, United States)
Project IDNIH-11127930 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms by which Campylobacter jejuni, a leading cause of foodborne illness, colonizes the intestines and causes inflammation. The study focuses on how this bacterium senses and adapts to the intestinal environment, particularly through a unique regulator called HeuR. By examining the genetic factors that influence colonization and persistence in the human gut, the research aims to uncover new insights into the infection process and potential therapeutic targets.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced gastrointestinal infections or are at risk of infection from contaminated food sources.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have a history of gastrointestinal infections or are not at risk of exposure to Campylobacter jejuni may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments or preventive measures for infections caused by Campylobacter jejuni.

How similar studies have performed: While research on other gastrointestinal pathogens has been conducted, the specific mechanisms of Campylobacter jejuni remain less understood, making this approach novel.

Where this research is happening

Iowa City, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.