Understanding how disease-causing bacteria spread their harmful proteins
Molecular Mechanisms of the Type I Secretion System from Bacterial Pathogens
This research aims to understand how certain bacteria release proteins that make us sick, hoping to find new ways to stop infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11136967 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Many bacteria cause illness by sending out harmful proteins that damage our bodies and weaken our immune system. This project focuses on a specific way bacteria, like those causing urinary tract infections or whooping cough, secrete these proteins. Researchers will use advanced imaging and other lab techniques to see exactly how these proteins move out of the bacteria. By understanding these tiny machines, we hope to discover new targets for medicines.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is relevant to anyone affected by bacterial infections, particularly those caused by Gram-negative bacteria like E. coli or Salmonella.
Not a fit: Patients whose conditions are not related to bacterial infections or the specific protein secretion mechanisms studied here would not directly benefit from this particular research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new strategies for developing drugs that block bacterial infections, especially those caused by common pathogens.
How similar studies have performed: While the general concept of bacterial protein secretion is known, this research aims to clarify specific molecular mechanisms that are currently not fully understood.
Where this research is happening
New Haven, United States
- Yale University — New Haven, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mi, Wei — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Mi, Wei
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.