Understanding how Staphylococcus aureus causes spine infections
Official title: Host-pathogen interactions during Staphylococcus aureus spine infections
Funded at New York University School of Medicine · NIH-10887194 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a type of bacteria called Staphylococcus aureus interacts with our immune system during spine infections, to help find better ways to diagnose and treat people who are affected by these serious infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | New York University School of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | June 16, 2025 |
| Project end | May 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $208,332 |
| NIH project number | 1K08AI177741-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10887194 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing back pain or symptoms related to spine infections, particularly those who may be at risk for severe complications.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with spine infections caused by other pathogens or those without any symptoms of infection may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the interactions between the Staphylococcus aureus bacteria and the human immune system during spine infections. It focuses on how specific toxins produced by the bacteria can evade the immune response, leading to severe complications such as paralysis and death. By using a novel humanized mouse model, the researchers aim to better understand the molecular mechanisms behind these infections and how they affect patient outcomes. This could lead to improved diagnostics and treatments for those suffering from spine infections.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better prevention and treatment strategies for spine infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus, potentially reducing morbidity and mortality.
How similar studies have gone: While there has been significant research on Staphylococcus aureus, this specific approach using a humanized mouse model to study spine infections is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
New York University School of Medicine
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Le, Katherine Yenkhang — New York University School of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Le, Katherine Yenkhang
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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.