Understanding how Yersinia bacteria affect immune cells
Dissecting Yersinia Yop Targets in Neutrophils
This study looks at how a harmful bacteria called Yersinia pseudotuberculosis affects immune cells called neutrophils, which help our body fight infections, and it aims to understand how the bacteria's proteins make it harder for our immune system to do its job.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Tufts University Boston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11001212 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the bacterial pathogen Yersinia pseudotuberculosis disrupts the immune response of neutrophils, which are crucial for fighting infections. By examining the mechanisms through which Yersinia injects virulence proteins into these immune cells, the study aims to uncover how these interactions impair the body's ability to clear infections. The research utilizes advanced biological models to analyze the signaling pathways affected by these bacterial proteins, particularly focusing on a protein called SKAP2 that plays a role in immune cell function.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with autoimmune disorders or those at risk of infections caused by bacterial pathogens.
Not a fit: Patients with non-bacterial infections or those not affected by autoimmune conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for enhancing immune responses against bacterial infections and potentially improving treatments for autoimmune disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in understanding immune responses to bacterial pathogens, indicating that this approach has potential for meaningful insights.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Tufts University Boston — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mecsas, Joan C — Tufts University Boston
- Study coordinator: Mecsas, Joan C
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.