Understanding how tick-borne bacteria adapt within their tick hosts.
Delineating adaptive mechanisms of tick-borne relapsing fever spirochetes within the argasid vector.
['FUNDING_R21'] · BAYLOR COLLEGE OF MEDICINE · NIH-10991025
This study looks at how certain bacteria that cause tick-borne relapsing fever manage to live and grow inside ticks, helping us learn more about these germs so we can better tackle tick-related illnesses.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R21'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | BAYLOR COLLEGE OF MEDICINE (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (HOUSTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10991025 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how tick-borne relapsing fever spirochetes, which are significant pathogens, adapt to survive within their tick hosts, specifically the Ornithodoros species. By examining the unique environments of the tick's midgut and salivary glands, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms that allow these bacteria to persist and thrive. The research employs functional genomics approaches to analyze the interactions between the spirochetes and their tick vectors, which could lead to better understanding and management of tick-borne diseases.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living in areas where tick-borne relapsing fever is prevalent or those who have been diagnosed with related tick-borne illnesses.
Not a fit: Patients who do not live in endemic areas or who are not affected by tick-borne diseases may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing and treating tick-borne diseases in humans.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding microbial adaptation in other vector-borne diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
HOUSTON, UNITED STATES
- BAYLOR COLLEGE OF MEDICINE — HOUSTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: LOPEZ, JOB E — BAYLOR COLLEGE OF MEDICINE
- Study coordinator: LOPEZ, JOB E
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.