Understanding how Wolbachia bacteria interact with their insect hosts
Official title: Defining the molecular interface of Wolbachia Ankyrin-host interaction
Funded at Trustees of Indiana University · NIH-11052292 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a type of bacteria called Wolbachia interacts with insects, like fruit flies, to help fight off viruses and could lead to new ways to control diseases spread by mosquitoes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Trustees of Indiana University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Bloomington, United States) |
| Project start | November 12, 2024 |
| Project end | October 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $504,596 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AI178815-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11052292 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for benefiting from this research include individuals living in regions affected by mosquito-borne diseases.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not live in areas where mosquito-borne diseases are prevalent may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the interaction between Wolbachia bacteria and their insect hosts, focusing on how these bacteria manipulate host biology to establish infection and persist. By studying specific proteins known as ankyrin repeat proteins, the research aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms that allow Wolbachia to inhibit RNA virus replication in insects. This could lead to better strategies for controlling diseases spread by mosquitoes, as Wolbachia-infected mosquitoes are already being released in various regions to combat these diseases. The approach includes genetic and molecular techniques to analyze the effects of these proteins in model organisms like fruit flies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance methods for controlling mosquito-borne diseases, potentially reducing the incidence of illnesses like dengue and Zika.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using Wolbachia-infected mosquitoes to control disease spread, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Trustees of Indiana University
Bloomington, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Newton, Irene — Trustees of Indiana University
- Study coordinator: Newton, Irene
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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.