Understanding how cholera bacteria damage host cell structures
Official title: Host detection of Vibrio cholerae-induced actin damage
Funded at Northwestern University at Chicago · NIH-10898184 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how the bacteria that cause cholera mess with our cells by damaging a key protein, which can lead to inflammation and other problems, and it aims to find out more about how cholera infections happen and how our bodies respond, with the hope of improving treatments and prevention.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $44,187 |
| NIH project number | 1F31AI183652-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10898184 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living in areas affected by cholera, particularly those under 21 years old who may be at higher risk of severe disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not affected by cholera or do not live in endemic regions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the cholera-causing bacteria, Vibrio cholerae, disrupts the structure of host cells by damaging actin, a crucial protein in cell function. The study focuses on a specific bacterial effector that alters actin's structure, leading to cell signaling changes and inflammation. By examining the host's response to this damage, researchers aim to uncover new insights into how cholera infections occur and how the body reacts to them. This knowledge could help in developing better treatments or preventive measures against cholera.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing and treating cholera infections.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding bacterial pathogenesis and host responses, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Northwestern University at Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mills, Jori — Northwestern University at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Mills, Jori
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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.