Understanding how Shigella bacteria inject harmful proteins into host cells
Characterization of assembly and activation of the Shigella type III secretion injectisome
This study is looking at how Shigella bacteria cause stomach sickness and aims to understand a special tool they use to invade our cells, which could help find better ways to prevent or treat these infections, especially in kids.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Missouri-Columbia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Columbia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10887612 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which Shigella bacteria cause bacillary dysentery, particularly focusing on a specialized structure called the type III secretion system (T3SS). By using advanced imaging techniques like cryo-electron tomography, the team aims to visualize the assembly and activation of this injectisome, which is crucial for the bacteria's ability to invade host cells. The study will also analyze the biochemical properties of the injectisome components to better understand how they function during infection. This research could lead to insights into preventing or treating infections caused by Shigella, especially in vulnerable populations such as children.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years who are at risk of or suffering from Shigella infections.
Not a fit: Patients who are adults or those who do not have a history of Shigella infection may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing and treating Shigella infections, reducing the incidence of severe diarrhea and its associated complications in children.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has successfully utilized similar imaging techniques to study bacterial secretion systems, indicating a promising approach for this investigation.
Where this research is happening
Columbia, United States
- University of Missouri-Columbia — Columbia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Picking, William D. — University of Missouri-Columbia
- Study coordinator: Picking, William D.
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.