Understanding how tickborne bacteria interact with human cells
Mechanisms of SFG Rickettsia-Host Interactions
This study is looking at how a type of bacteria carried by ticks affects human cells, with the hope of finding new ways to diagnose and treat the diseases they cause.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts Institute of Technology NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cambridge, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10891429 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the interactions between Spotted Fever Group Rickettsia, a type of tickborne bacteria, and human cells. The team aims to uncover how these bacteria invade host cells and manipulate them to spread disease. By using advanced genetic techniques, they are studying specific bacterial proteins that may play a role in this process. The goal is to identify potential targets for new diagnostics and treatments for the diseases caused by these pathogens.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have been diagnosed with or are at risk for infections caused by Spotted Fever Group Rickettsia.
Not a fit: Patients with tickborne diseases caused by other pathogens unrelated to Spotted Fever Group Rickettsia may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnostics and therapeutic options for patients suffering from tickborne diseases.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in understanding bacterial-host interactions, but this specific approach to studying SFG Rickettsia is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Cambridge, United States
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology — Cambridge, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lamason, Rebecca L — Massachusetts Institute of Technology
- Study coordinator: Lamason, Rebecca L
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.