Understanding how the gut detects harmful bacteria
Detection of intestinal pathogens through host surveillance of bacterial toxins
This study looks at how the cells in your gut can tell the difference between harmful bacteria and friendly ones, using tiny worms to learn more about how our immune system protects us from infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Worcester, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11010755 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how intestinal cells recognize and respond to harmful bacteria, specifically focusing on the detection of bacterial toxins. By studying the mechanisms that differentiate between harmful pathogens and harmless bacteria, the research aims to uncover how the gut's immune system activates protective responses. The study uses the model organism C. elegans to explore the role of specific transcription factors in this detection process, which could lead to new insights into gut health and infection control.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with compromised immune systems who are at higher risk for intestinal infections.
Not a fit: Patients with non-infectious gastrointestinal conditions may not receive benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing and treating infections caused by harmful bacteria in patients.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in understanding immune responses to bacterial infections, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Worcester, United States
- Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester — Worcester, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tse, Samantha — Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester
- Study coordinator: Tse, Samantha
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.