Using immune responses to fight Coxiella burnetii infections
Exploiting a cyclic dinucleotide-mediated immune response to reduce the burden of Coxiella burnetii infection
This study is looking at how a special type of molecule called cyclic dinucleotides can help boost the immune system to fight off Q fever, which is caused by a bacteria called Coxiella burnetii, and it hopes to find a new way to help people feel better alongside regular antibiotics.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pullman, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10669187 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how cyclic dinucleotides (CDNs) can stimulate the immune system to combat infections caused by Coxiella burnetii, the bacteria responsible for Q fever. By activating the STING pathway in the immune system, the study aims to enhance the body's natural defenses against this pathogen. The approach involves administering synthetic CDNs to potentially reduce the severity of the infection and improve patient outcomes. This could provide an alternative or adjunct treatment to traditional antibiotic therapies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have been diagnosed with Q fever or are at risk of infection due to exposure to Coxiella burnetii.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have a history of exposure to Coxiella burnetii or those with other unrelated bacterial infections may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for patients suffering from Q fever, potentially reducing the duration and severity of their illness.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that similar approaches using cyclic dinucleotides have been effective in treating other bacterial infections, suggesting potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
Pullman, United States
- Washington State University — Pullman, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Goodman, Alan Gabriel — Washington State University
- Study coordinator: Goodman, Alan Gabriel
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.