Understanding how streptococcus bacteria adapt to the body's defenses against nutrition.
Molecular mechanism of streptococcal adaptation to host nutritional defenses
['FUNDING_R01'] · METHODIST HOSPITAL RESEARCH INSTITUTE · NIH-11056033
This study is looking at how the streptococcus bacteria, which can cause infections, manage to survive in our bodies and how we might be able to create a vaccine to protect against them.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | METHODIST HOSPITAL RESEARCH INSTITUTE (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (HOUSTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11056033 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the streptococcus bacteria, specifically Streptococcus pyogenes, adapt to the nutritional defenses of the human body. By examining the mechanisms that allow these bacteria to survive and thrive despite the body's immune responses, the study aims to identify potential targets for a vaccine. The approach involves analyzing the bacteria's metal acquisition systems, which are crucial for their virulence and ability to evade the immune system. This research is particularly focused on developing strategies that could lead to a broadly protective vaccine against diseases caused by these bacteria.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children and young adults who are at risk of infections caused by Streptococcus pyogenes, particularly those with a history of rheumatic heart disease.
Not a fit: Patients who are not at risk for streptococcal infections or who have already been vaccinated against these bacteria may not receive any benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of a vaccine that significantly reduces the incidence of rheumatic heart disease and other serious infections caused by streptococcus bacteria.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in developing vaccines targeting similar bacterial mechanisms, indicating that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
HOUSTON, UNITED STATES
- METHODIST HOSPITAL RESEARCH INSTITUTE — HOUSTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: KUMARASWAMI, MUTHIAH — METHODIST HOSPITAL RESEARCH INSTITUTE
- Study coordinator: KUMARASWAMI, MUTHIAH
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.