Understanding unique proteins that help spirochetes move
Official title: Delineation of unique flagellar proteins in spirochetes
Funded at East Carolina University · NIH-11042857 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at special proteins that help the Lyme disease bacteria move, with the goal of understanding how they work so we can find better ways to treat infections caused by these germs.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | East Carolina University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Greenville, United States) |
| Project start | February 23, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $519,498 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI132818-06 |
| Project ID | NIH-11042857 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Lyme disease or other conditions caused by spirochetal bacteria.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-spirochetal infections or those not affected by Lyme disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the unique flagellar proteins in spirochetes, particularly focusing on the Lyme disease-causing bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi. By examining the molecular mechanisms that allow these bacteria to move, the research aims to uncover how specific proteins contribute to their motility and pathogenicity. The study employs advanced biochemical and bioinformatics techniques to characterize these proteins and their roles in the assembly of flagella, which are crucial for the bacteria's ability to infect hosts. This work is essential for developing new treatment strategies against diseases caused by spirochetes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment options for patients suffering from Lyme disease and other spirochetal infections.
How similar studies have gone: While spirochetes have been studied, this specific focus on their unique flagellar proteins represents a novel approach that has not been extensively explored.
Where this research is happening
-
East Carolina University
Greenville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Motaleb, Md a — East Carolina University
- Study coordinator: Motaleb, Md a
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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.