Understanding how certain bacteria resist the immune response in humans
Conserved NO-Binding Cytochromes in Burkholderia pseudomallei and Other Pathogens
['FUNDING_R21'] · UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON · NIH-11058206
This study is looking at how the germ that causes melioidosis, called Burkholderia pseudomallei, manages to survive in the body even when the immune system is trying to fight it off, and it focuses on a special protein that might help the bacteria resist the immune response, with hopes of finding new ways to treat the infection.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R21'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SEATTLE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11058206 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the bacterium Burkholderia pseudomallei, which causes melioidosis, survives despite the body's immune response. The study focuses on a specific protein, cyt BP1, that may help these bacteria detoxify nitric oxide, a molecule produced by the immune system to fight infections. By using model organisms, researchers will disrupt the genes related to this protein to observe the effects on bacterial survival and virulence. The ultimate goal is to uncover mechanisms that allow these pathogens to persist in the body, which could lead to new treatment strategies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals infected with Burkholderia pseudomallei or those at risk of melioidosis.
Not a fit: Patients with infections caused by bacteria other than Burkholderia pseudomallei may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that enhance the effectiveness of treatments against antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in understanding bacterial resistance mechanisms, but this specific approach to studying cyt BP1 is novel.
Where this research is happening
SEATTLE, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON — SEATTLE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: KIM, HYUNG J — UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON
- Study coordinator: KIM, HYUNG J
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.
Conditions: B pertussis infection, B. pertussis infection, bacterial disease treatment, bacterial infectious disease treatment