Understanding how certain bacteria adapt to their environments using a specific signaling pathway

Cyclic di-AMP-dependent signaling in tickborne relapsing fever Borrelia

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIV OF ARKANSAS FOR MED SCIS · NIH-10894203

This study looks at how a specific signaling pathway helps tickborne relapsing fever bacteria survive in different places, like ticks and humans, and by understanding these changes, we hope to find better ways to treat the diseases they cause.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIV OF ARKANSAS FOR MED SCIS (nih funded)
Locations1 site (LITTLE ROCK, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10894203 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how the signaling pathway involving cyclic di-AMP helps tickborne relapsing fever bacteria adapt to different environments, such as those found in ticks and humans. By studying the genetic changes these bacteria undergo, the research aims to uncover important aspects of their survival and pathogenicity. The approach involves inactivating specific components of the signaling pathway to observe the effects on bacterial behavior and adaptation. This could lead to a better understanding of how these bacteria cause disease and how they might be targeted for treatment.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have been diagnosed with tickborne relapsing fever or are at high risk of exposure to the disease.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have tickborne relapsing fever or related conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing and treating tickborne relapsing fever and potentially Lyme disease.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in understanding bacterial signaling pathways, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

LITTLE ROCK, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.