Understanding how DNA changes affect the behavior of C. difficile bacteria
Official title: Epigenetic regulation of sporulation in Clostridioides difficile
Funded at Tufts University Boston · NIH-11139081 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how changes in DNA affect the behavior of Clostridioides difficile, a germ that can cause serious infections in hospitals, to find new ways to treat these infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Tufts University Boston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | January 28, 2025 |
| Project end | December 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $261,492 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AI188339-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11139081 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced recurrent or severe C. difficile infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have C. difficile infections or are not at risk for such infections may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of DNA methylation in the behavior of Clostridioides difficile, a significant cause of hospital infections. By focusing on a specific enzyme, CamA, which is crucial for the bacteria's ability to form spores and persist in the environment, the study aims to uncover new therapeutic targets. The approach involves analyzing how changes in DNA affect the bacteria's physiology, which could lead to innovative treatments for infections caused by this pathogen.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of new therapies to effectively treat C. difficile infections.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting bacterial physiology through genetic modifications, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Tufts University Boston
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shen, Aimee — Tufts University Boston
- Study coordinator: Shen, Aimee
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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.