Understanding how Lyme disease bacteria invade the nervous system
Mechanisms of central nervous system invasion by the Lyme disease spirochete, Borrelia burgdorferi
['FUNDING_R21'] · UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH ALABAMA · NIH-11114182
This study is looking at how the bacteria that cause Lyme disease can enter the brain and spinal fluid, and how different types of mice respond to this infection, to help find better treatments for people with serious neurological issues related to Lyme disease.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R21'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH ALABAMA (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (MOBILE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11114182 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the Lyme disease-causing bacteria, Borrelia burgdorferi, invade the central nervous system and the body's response to this invasion. Using laboratory mice, the study aims to identify the mechanisms behind the bacteria's ability to colonize the brain and spinal fluid, which can lead to serious neurological conditions. The researchers will explore how different mouse strains respond to the infection, providing insights into the inflammatory processes involved. This work is crucial for developing better treatments for Lyme neuroborreliosis, a severe complication of Lyme disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have been diagnosed with Lyme disease and are experiencing neurological symptoms.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have Lyme disease or those without neurological symptoms may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for patients suffering from neurological complications of Lyme disease.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in understanding Lyme disease pathology through animal models, but this specific focus on central nervous system invasion is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
MOBILE, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH ALABAMA — MOBILE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: CASSELLI, TIMOTHY — UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH ALABAMA
- Study coordinator: CASSELLI, TIMOTHY
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.
Conditions: Arthritis in Lyme disease