Using CRISPR technology to understand gene functions in Chlamydia trachomatis
Official title: CRISPR interference of essential stage-specific gene function in Chlamydia trachomatis
Funded at Lsu Health Sciences Center · NIH-10909134 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new way to turn off certain genes in the Chlamydia bacteria, which can cause serious health problems like STIs and blindness, to help us understand how these germs work and find better ways to treat or prevent infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Lsu Health Sciences Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Orleans, United States) |
| Project start | August 17, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $189,250 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI175651-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10909134 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for or currently infected with Chlamydia trachomatis, particularly those experiencing complications from the infection.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not infected with Chlamydia trachomatis or those with other unrelated health conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how to use CRISPR interference to silence specific genes in the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis, which is responsible for serious health issues like sexually transmitted infections and preventable blindness. By employing a technique that allows for reversible gene knockdowns, the researchers aim to uncover the roles of essential genes during different stages of the bacterium's life cycle. This approach could lead to a better understanding of how Chlamydia causes disease and how to effectively combat it. Patients may benefit from insights gained that could inform new treatments or preventive strategies against infections.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating Chlamydia infections and preventing associated health complications.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise using CRISPR technology for gene editing in various bacterial pathogens, indicating potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Lsu Health Sciences Center
New Orleans, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shen, Li — Lsu Health Sciences Center
- Study coordinator: Shen, Li
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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.