Understanding how small proteins affect the ability of certain bacteria to cause disease
Characterization of a novel family of Small Regulatory Proteins modulating virulence in Enterobacteriaceae
This study is looking at tiny proteins that help harmful bacteria, which can make you sick in your stomach, survive and avoid your body's defenses, with the hope of finding new ways to create vaccines or treatments to keep you healthy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11009515 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates a newly discovered family of small regulatory proteins that influence how certain bacteria, particularly those causing gastrointestinal diseases, can thrive and evade the immune system. By examining the mechanisms these proteins use to control bacterial virulence factors, the research aims to uncover potential targets for new vaccines or treatments. The approach involves studying various enteric pathogens in laboratory settings to understand their behavior and interactions at a molecular level. This could lead to significant advancements in preventing and treating infections caused by these bacteria.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals at high risk for gastrointestinal infections, such as children, the elderly, or those with compromised immune systems.
Not a fit: Patients with non-enteric infections or those not at risk for gastrointestinal diseases may not receive any benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of effective vaccines or therapies against common and severe gastrointestinal infections.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in targeting bacterial virulence mechanisms, indicating that this approach could lead to meaningful advancements in infectious disease treatment.
Where this research is happening
Charlottesville, United States
- University of Virginia — Charlottesville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Santiago, Araceli Elvira — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Santiago, Araceli Elvira
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.