# The role of redox sensing in Listeria monocytogenes pathogenesis

> **NIH NIH R01** · UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON · 2024 · $529,484

## Abstract

PROJECT SUMMARY
A critically understudied part of Listeria monocytogenes (Lm) pathogenesis is colonization of the mammalian
gallbladder. The gallbladder is the primary bacterial reservoir for several enteric pathogens, including Lm,
Salmonella, and Campylobacter, and serves as the source of fecally secreted bacteria that has the potential to
increase transmission of these foodborne pathogens. Here, we will dissect the nature of Lm growth in the
gallbladder and identify the bacterial metabolic and stress response pathways critical for colonization of the
murine gallbladder. To that end, we present preliminary data from our novel ex vivo model of Lm gallbladder
colonization using organs from non-human primates (NHP). These results have set the stage for investigations
into specific genes and pathways necessary for Lm replication in the gallbladder lumen. The objectives of this
proposal will be accomplished with three Specific Aims: (1) Define the gallbladder as a replicative niche for Lm.
To do this, we will determine the localization of Lm in the gallbladder and define the metabolites available in the
gallbladder lumen. (2) Identify the Lm genes required for colonization of the gallbladder. Here, fluorescent
reporter strains will be engineered to identify the Lm signaling pathways that are activated in the gallbladder
during infection. Additionally, we will evaluate specific Lm genes and pathways for their roles in pathogenesis,
with a focus on gallbladder colonization. (3) Determine the role of the immune response to Lm ∆rex infection.
Our approach is technically innovative as it takes advantage of our novel model of NHP gallbladder colonization
to globally assess bacterial genes important for replication in this unique niche. Results from these studies will
be significant as they will uncover how bacterial pathogens replicate in the gallbladder and have the potential to
uncover therapeutic targets to reduce colonization and spread of enteric pathogens.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10884352
- **Project number:** 5R01AI132356-08
- **Recipient organization:** UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON
- **Principal Investigator:** Joshua Woodward
- **Activity code:** R01 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2024
- **Award amount:** $529,484
- **Award type:** 5
- **Project period:** 2017-09-25 → 2027-07-31

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10884352

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10884352, The role of redox sensing in Listeria monocytogenes pathogenesis (5R01AI132356-08). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-24 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10884352. Licensed CC0.

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