Understanding how the microbiota affects infections like chlamydia and gonorrhea
Official title: Host-Microbiota Interactions and STI Outcomes
Funded at University of Maryland Baltimore · NIH-11290895 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina can affect how the body responds to infections like chlamydia and gonorrhea, with the hope of helping patients understand their own health better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Maryland Baltimore NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2025 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $167,213 |
| NIH project number | 5U19AI158930-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11290895 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are at risk for or currently experiencing infections caused by Chlamydia trachomatis or Neisseria gonorrhoeae.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a cervicovaginal microbiota or are not at risk for sexually transmitted infections may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on creating a biomimetic model of the cervicovaginal environment to explore how interactions between the host and microbiota influence responses to infections caused by Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae. By utilizing advanced techniques such as RNA sequencing and immune profiling, the study aims to gain insights into the biological mechanisms at play during these infections. Patients may benefit from a better understanding of how their microbiota can affect their susceptibility to sexually transmitted infections.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prevention and treatment strategies for sexually transmitted infections.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding host-microbiota interactions in other contexts, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Maryland Baltimore
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ravel, Jacques — University of Maryland Baltimore
- Study coordinator: Ravel, Jacques
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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.