Creating new systems to fight bacterial infections using advanced materials.
Official title: Development of bioinspired tandem semiconductor/peroxidase systems for microbiocidal applications.
Funded at College of Idaho, INC. · NIH-10792315 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new way to fight tough bacterial infections, especially those caused by stubborn clusters of bacteria called biofilms, by using special materials that work like your body's natural defenses to help keep you healthy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | College of Idaho, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Caldwell, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $321,177 |
| NIH project number | 1R15GM152996-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10792315 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from chronic wounds or infections that are resistant to standard treatments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with acute infections that do not involve biofilm formation may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing innovative systems that combine semiconductor materials with peroxidase enzymes to combat bacterial infections, particularly those caused by biofilms. Biofilms are clusters of bacteria that can form on surfaces and are notoriously difficult to treat, often leading to chronic infections. The approach involves using a metal-free semiconductor called graphitic carbon nitride, which can generate reactive oxygen species to mimic the body's natural immune response. By enhancing the antimicrobial properties of these compounds, the research aims to provide new strategies for preventing and treating infections.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for chronic bacterial infections, improving healing outcomes for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using reactive oxygen species for antimicrobial applications, suggesting that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
College of Idaho, INC.
Caldwell, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Thurston, John Henry — College of Idaho, INC.
- Study coordinator: Thurston, John Henry
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.