NU 2008-004 

Inventors 

Anthony J. Schaeffer*

David J. Klumpp

Benjamin Billips

Short Description

A bacterial strain that promotes immune response for UTI treatment

Abstract

Urinary tract infections, either chronic or acute, are a frequent health problem in a variety of populations. Northwestern investigators have demonstrated that deletion of a certain gene from urinary-tract colonizing bacteria has resulted in a strain that promotes immune response when administered to mammalian subjects. The modified bacterium does not establish a persistent population in the bladder, but promotes cytokine secretion from urothelial cells. These bacteria represent a candidate material for a live-attenuated vaccine that could be used to protect against acute and recurrent urinary tract infections. Successful tests have been performed in a mouse model. 

Applications

• Preventative medicine for UTIs
• Alternative to repeated use of antibiotics
• Particularly useful for nursing home patients or other high-risk groups

Advantages

• Prevents infection by stimulating patient immune system
• Inexpensive, easy-to-grow bacterium
• Simple to administer

Publications 

Billips B, Yaggie R, Cashy J, Schaeffer A and Klumpp D (2009) A Live-Attenuated Vaccine for the Treatment of Urinary Tract Infection by Uropathogenic Escherichia Coli. The Journal of Infectious Diseases. 200(2): 263-272. 

IP Status 

Issued US Patent Nos. 8,709,444 and 9,248,175