Understanding the genes that help Chlamydia cause infection
Functional genomics for Chlamydia
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON · NIH-11375258
Researchers are mapping Chlamydia trachomatis genes to find which ones let the bacteria infect and damage human and mouse cells.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SEATTLE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11375258 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This project uses new genetic tools to turn off or swap genes in Chlamydia trachomatis so scientists can see which genes are needed for infection and how the bacteria adapt to different hosts. The team combines genome-wide transposon mutagenesis and interspecies gene-chimera approaches with lab-grown human cells and a clinically relevant mouse model to trace which genes affect infection and tissue targeting. Investigators will focus on two secreted inclusion membrane proteins, IncU and IncS, to learn how the bacteria manipulate host cells. The work is lab- and animal-based and aims to produce a map of Chlamydia genes linked to infection, host preference, and disease mechanisms.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with or at risk for Chlamydia trachomatis infection (for example urogenital or ocular infections) would be the most relevant patient group for this research.
Not a fit: Patients with unrelated diseases or infections caused by other organisms are unlikely to get direct benefits from this specific Chlamydia-focused project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to new targets for vaccines, antibiotics, or diagnostics to better prevent and treat Chlamydia infections.
How similar studies have performed: Similar genome-wide genetic approaches have revealed key genes in other bacteria, but applying these newly developed genetic tools to Chlamydia is largely novel.
Where this research is happening
SEATTLE, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON — SEATTLE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: HYBISKE, KEVIN — UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON
- Study coordinator: HYBISKE, KEVIN
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.