Understanding how Clostridium difficile adapts to the gut environment
Global regulation in Clostridium difficile via phase variation of cyclic diguanylate signaling
This study is looking at how the C. difficile bacteria, which can cause serious gut problems, changes itself to survive in the intestines, focusing on a special molecule that helps it adapt, with the hope of finding new ways to treat infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chapel Hill, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10687855 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which Clostridium difficile, a bacterium responsible for severe gastrointestinal diseases, adapts to the host's intestinal environment. It focuses on the role of a signaling molecule called cyclic diguanylate (c-di-GMP) in regulating the bacterium's surface structures, which are crucial for its survival and virulence. By studying phase variation, a process that allows bacteria to change their characteristics in response to environmental pressures, the research aims to uncover how C. difficile alters its cell surface to thrive in the gut. This could lead to new insights into the pathogenicity of this bacterium and potential targets for treatment.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced Clostridium difficile infections or are at high risk for such infections.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have a history of Clostridium difficile infections or are not at risk for gastrointestinal diseases may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing and treating infections caused by Clostridium difficile.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding bacterial adaptation mechanisms, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Chapel Hill, United States
- Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill — Chapel Hill, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tamayo, Rita — Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill
- Study coordinator: Tamayo, Rita
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.