Understanding the harmful effects of the Kingella kingae bacteria
Official title: Pathogenicity of the emerging pathogen Kingella kingae
Funded at Children's Hosp of Philadelphia · NIH-10974031 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the bacteria Kingella kingae, which can cause serious bone and joint infections in young kids under 4, spreads in the throat and leads to these infections, with the goal of finding better ways to prevent and treat them.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Children's Hosp of Philadelphia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | November 4, 2022 |
| Project end | October 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $445,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI172841-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10974031 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are young children, particularly those under 4 years old, who are at risk for infections caused by Kingella kingae.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are older than 21 years or those without a history of infections related to Kingella kingae may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the invasive bacterium Kingella kingae, which is a leading cause of bone and joint infections in young children, particularly those under 4 years old. The study aims to understand how this pathogen colonizes the oropharynx and spreads to cause serious infections, including osteoarticular infections and bloodstream infections. By examining the bacteria's virulence factors, including a specific exopolysaccharide, the research seeks to identify potential strategies for prevention and treatment. The findings could lead to improved management of infections caused by this pathogen, ultimately benefiting affected patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to effective prevention and treatment strategies for infections caused by Kingella kingae, reducing complications and improving outcomes for young patients.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has indicated the significance of understanding bacterial pathogenesis and has shown success in developing treatment strategies for similar pathogens.
Where this research is happening
-
Children's Hosp of Philadelphia
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: St. Geme, Joseph W. — Children's Hosp of Philadelphia
- Study coordinator: St. Geme, Joseph W.
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.