Understanding how Legionella bacteria cause disease
Official title: Role of Legionella pneumophila Lvh TIVSS in virulence
Funded at Southern Univ A&m Col Baton Rouge · NIH-10848289 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the Legionella bacteria, which causes Legionnaires' disease, manages to dodge our immune system and cause infections, with the hope of finding new ways to prevent and treat the illness.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Southern Univ A&m Col Baton Rouge NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baton Rouge, United States) |
| Project start | August 20, 2021 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $105,000 |
| NIH project number | 5SC3GM136544-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-10848289 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have been diagnosed with or are at risk for Legionnaires' disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have any history of exposure to Legionella or are not at risk for Legionnaires' disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which Legionella pneumophila, a bacterium responsible for Legionnaires' disease, can evade the immune system and establish infections. The study focuses on a specific set of genes known as the Lvh type IV secretion system, which is believed to play a crucial role in the bacteria's ability to infect host cells. By examining how these genes function and contribute to the bacteria's virulence, the research aims to uncover new insights into the infection process. This could lead to better prevention and treatment strategies for those affected by Legionnaires' disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments and preventive measures for Legionnaires' disease, potentially reducing its incidence and severity.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding the virulence mechanisms of other bacteria, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Southern Univ A&m Col Baton Rouge
Baton Rouge, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Dubytska, Lidiya — Southern Univ A&m Col Baton Rouge
- Study coordinator: Dubytska, Lidiya
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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.