Understanding how H. pylori bacteria cause stomach problems

Type IV Protein Secretion in Helicobacter pylori

NIH-funded research Vanderbilt University Medical Center · NIH-11060953

This research explores how H. pylori bacteria use a specific system to cause stomach inflammation, ulcers, and cancer.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVanderbilt University Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Nashville, United States)
Project IDNIH-11060953 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

Many people carry H. pylori bacteria in their stomach, which can lead to long-term inflammation and increase the risk of serious conditions like stomach cancer and ulcers. These bacteria use a special 'secretion system' to inject a protein called CagA into your stomach cells. This CagA protein then changes how your cells behave, which can contribute to the development of cancer. Our goal is to understand exactly how this system works at a molecular level, helping us learn more about how H. pylori causes stomach disease.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: This foundational research focuses on understanding the disease mechanism and does not currently involve direct patient participation.

Not a fit: Patients not affected by H. pylori infection would not directly benefit from this specific research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating stomach inflammation, ulcers, and cancer caused by H. pylori.

How similar studies have performed: This research builds upon previous findings by the same team, suggesting a progressive understanding of H. pylori's disease mechanisms.

Where this research is happening

Nashville, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.