Creating targeted nanostructures to fight bacterial infections
Official title: Theory Assisted Design, Synthesis and Biological Activity of Bacteria-Targeting Nanostructures
Funded at University of Nebraska Medical Center · NIH-11048854 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on tiny structures that can specifically target and fight off tough bacteria that don't respond to regular treatments, especially for people in hospitals who are more at risk of infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Nebraska Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Omaha, United States) |
| Project start | January 16, 2025 |
| Project end | November 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $410,713 |
| NIH project number | 1R01EB035543-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11048854 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients suffering from infections caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria, particularly those in hospital settings.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with infections caused by non-resistant bacteria or those not affected by Acinetobacter baumannii may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing specialized nanostructures that can selectively target and combat harmful bacteria, particularly those that are resistant to current treatments. By utilizing computer models, the researchers aim to predict how these nanostructures will interact with bacteria, enhancing their effectiveness. The project specifically addresses serious pathogens like Acinetobacter baumannii, which are known to cause infections in vulnerable populations, such as those in hospitals. The approach combines theoretical design with practical testing of these nanostructures to ensure they are both effective and safe for use.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for bacterial infections that are currently difficult to manage due to antibiotic resistance.
How similar studies have gone: While the approach of using nanostructures to target bacteria is promising, it is still relatively novel and has not been extensively tested in clinical settings.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Nebraska Medical Center
Omaha, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Conda Sheridan, Martin Miguel — University of Nebraska Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Conda Sheridan, Martin Miguel
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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.