The object of this proposed research is to identify and characterize the macromolecules that allow the bacterium Citrobacter freundii biotype 4280 to induce epithelial cell proliferation in the descending colon of laboratory mice. This disease, called transmissible murine colonic hyperplasia, results in altered intestinal physiology which resembles that of human proliferative bowel disorders. Consequently, mice with transmissible murine colonic hyperplasia develop colonic neoplasia after a shorter latent period and with a lower dose than uninfected mice, following exposure to a known carcinogen. This work may ultimately lead to the development of a mouse model for inflammatory bowel disease, and a better understanding of the relationship between gastrointestinal pathogens, mucosal turnover, and cancer.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Type
First Independent Research Support & Transition (FIRST) Awards (R29)
Project #
5R29CA063112-05
Application #
2796286
Study Section
Bacteriology and Mycology Subcommittee 2 (BM)
Program Officer
Hall, Leota
Project Start
1994-09-30
Project End
2000-09-29
Budget Start
1998-09-30
Budget End
2000-09-29
Support Year
5
Fiscal Year
1998
Total Cost
Indirect Cost
Name
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Department
Miscellaneous
Type
Other Domestic Higher Education
DUNS #
City
Cambridge
State
MA
Country
United States
Zip Code
02139