What makes Chlamydia infectious
Functional genomics for Chlamydia
Using new genetic tools, scientists are finding which Chlamydia genes help the bacteria infect people and cause disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11121069 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers will create genetically altered and chimeric Chlamydia strains using transposon mutagenesis and lateral gene transfer, then test how those changes affect bacterial growth and infection in lab-grown cells and a clinically relevant mouse model. The team will map which genes are required for infection and for adapting to different hosts. They will also study two secreted proteins, IncU and IncS, to learn how Chlamydia subverts host cells. Together these lab and animal experiments aim to link specific bacterial genes to steps in disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People who have had or are at risk for C. trachomatis infection, or who might donate clinical samples for future related studies, would be the most relevant candidates.
Not a fit: Because this is primarily laboratory and mouse-based genetic research, people seeking immediate clinical treatment should not expect direct personal benefit from this project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to new targets for diagnostics, vaccines, or treatments to prevent or better treat Chlamydia infections.
How similar studies have performed: Genome-wide functional genetics has produced major advances in other bacteria, but applying these methods to C. trachomatis is relatively new because the organism was historically hard to manipulate genetically.
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.