Understanding how Listeria bacteria invade the placenta and fetus
Deciphering mechanisms of Listeria placental-fetal invasion
This study is looking at how a type of bacteria called Listeria can get into the placenta during pregnancy and affect the health of the baby, with the goal of finding better ways to protect pregnant women from these infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Illinois at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11080309 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the bacteria Listeria monocytogenes can invade the placenta and affect fetal health during pregnancy. It focuses on the mechanisms by which these bacteria target the placenta, particularly through a protein called InlB, which may enhance their ability to infect. The study aims to identify variations in this protein that could lead to more effective treatments for pregnant women who may be at risk of Listeria infections. By understanding these processes, the research seeks to develop new therapeutic strategies to manage and prevent serious outcomes associated with these infections.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include pregnant women who may be at risk of Listeria infection due to food exposure or other factors.
Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or those who do not have a risk of Listeria infection may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments and preventive measures for pregnant women at risk of Listeria infections, potentially reducing the incidence of miscarriage and stillbirth.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in understanding bacterial infections during pregnancy, but this specific approach to Listeria is novel and aims to uncover new therapeutic strategies.
Where this research is happening
Chicago, UNITED STATES
- University of Illinois at Chicago — Chicago, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Freitag, Nancy Elizabeth — University of Illinois at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Freitag, Nancy Elizabeth
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.