Understanding how the Lyme disease bacteria controls its ability to cause illness
Global virulence regulatory network in the Lyme disease pathogen
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA · NIH-11112693
This study is looking at how the Lyme disease bacteria, Borrelia burgdorferi, changes and survives in ticks and mammals, focusing on a specific protein called BosR that helps it cause infection, with the hope of finding new ways to treat or prevent Lyme disease.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (TAMPA, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11112693 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the regulatory network of Borrelia burgdorferi, the bacteria responsible for Lyme disease, focusing on how it adapts during its life cycle between ticks and mammals. The study aims to identify key genes and mechanisms that control the bacteria's virulence, particularly the role of a protein called BosR in regulating these genes. By examining how BosR influences the bacteria's ability to infect hosts, the research seeks to uncover potential targets for new treatments or preventive measures against Lyme disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have been diagnosed with Lyme disease or are at high risk of infection due to tick exposure.
Not a fit: Patients who have chronic Lyme disease symptoms without a confirmed diagnosis or those who are not exposed to ticks may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating Lyme disease, improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in understanding bacterial virulence mechanisms, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
TAMPA, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA — TAMPA, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: OUYANG, ZHIMING — UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA
- Study coordinator: OUYANG, ZHIMING
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.