Understanding how Group B Streptococcus causes infections and affects the immune system
Official title: Characterization of a Type VII Secretion System in Group B Streptococcus and its Role in Virulence and Immune Response
Funded at University of Virginia · NIH-10739232 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a bacteria called Group B Streptococcus (GBS) causes infections, especially in newborns, by understanding how it uses certain proteins to evade the immune system and potentially lead to serious conditions like meningitis.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $162,000 |
| NIH project number | 1K22AI170795-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10739232 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include pregnant women who are carriers of Group B Streptococcus and newborns at risk of developing infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not pregnant or do not have a history of Group B Streptococcus colonization may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which Group B Streptococcus (GBS) causes infections, particularly focusing on its Type VII secretion system and how it affects the immune response. The study aims to characterize specific proteins secreted by GBS that may contribute to its virulence and ability to disrupt the blood-brain barrier, leading to severe conditions like neonatal meningitis. By using murine models, researchers will explore the role of these proteins in infection and inflammation, which could provide insights into potential therapeutic targets.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prevention and treatment strategies for infections caused by Group B Streptococcus, particularly in vulnerable populations such as newborns and pregnant women.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding bacterial virulence mechanisms, but the specific characterization of Type VII secretion systems in GBS is a novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Virginia
Charlottesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Spencer, Brady L — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Spencer, Brady L
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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.