Understanding how the eye's bacteria and immune response affect trachoma after treatment.
Impact of ocular microbiome, immune response and Chlamydiae on trachoma following MDA
This study is looking at how the germs in our eyes and our body's immune system work together in people with trachoma, especially after they've received antibiotic treatment, to find better ways to help prevent the disease and avoid blindness.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10886568 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the ocular microbiome and immune responses in the development of trachoma, an infectious disease caused by Chlamydia trachomatis, particularly following mass drug administration (MDA) with antibiotics like azithromycin. The study aims to analyze how these factors contribute to the persistence of the disease in certain populations, especially in regions where MDA has been implemented multiple times without achieving elimination. By examining the interactions between the microbiome, immune response, and the bacteria, the research seeks to identify potential new strategies for improving treatment outcomes and preventing blindness. Patients may be involved in providing samples or data to help understand these dynamics better.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals living in endemic regions, particularly children under 10 years old who have been treated for trachoma.
Not a fit: Patients who do not live in endemic areas or who have not been treated for trachoma may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies that reduce the incidence of blindness caused by trachoma.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in using similar approaches to understand infectious diseases, but the specific focus on the ocular microbiome in relation to trachoma is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
San Francisco, United States
- University of California, San Francisco — San Francisco, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Dean, Deborah Anne — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Dean, Deborah Anne
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.