Understanding how Clostridioides difficile spores germinate and finding ways to stop it
Official title: Spore germination pathway in Clostridioides difficile and its pharmacological intervention
Funded at University of Notre Dame · NIH-10853233 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the spores of a germ called Clostridioides difficile wake up and cause infections in people, especially those who have taken antibiotics, and it’s testing some new compounds to see if they can help stop this process and improve treatment for those with recurring infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Notre Dame NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Notre Dame, United States) |
| Project start | August 9, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $770,512 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AI178776-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10853233 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients who have experienced recurrent C. difficile infections, particularly those who have been treated with broad-spectrum antibiotics.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not been diagnosed with C. difficile infections or those with other gastrointestinal conditions unrelated to this bacterium may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the spore germination process of Clostridioides difficile, a bacterium that can cause severe gastrointestinal infections, particularly in patients who have undergone antibiotic treatment. The study aims to understand how these spores become active cells in the gut and how this process contributes to recurrent infections. By exploring the effects of certain compounds, known as oxadiazoles, the researchers hope to find a way to inhibit spore germination, potentially leading to new treatments for patients suffering from recurrent C. difficile infections.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that prevent recurrent C. difficile infections, significantly improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting bacterial spore germination, indicating that this approach could lead to significant advancements in treatment.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Notre Dame
Notre Dame, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chang, Mayland F — University of Notre Dame
- Study coordinator: Chang, Mayland F
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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.