Exploring how bacteria use protein processes to fight viruses
Official title: Understanding the role of ubiquitination-like processes in bacterial antiviral immunity
Funded at University of Colorado · NIH-11165584 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how bacteria use special proteins to fight off viruses, similar to how our bodies do, and it hopes to find new ways to help develop antiviral treatments that could benefit patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boulder, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | June 1, 2025 |
| Project end | October 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $42,279 |
| NIH project number | 1F31AI186492-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11165584 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals with viral infections or those interested in the mechanisms of antiviral immunity.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-viral infections or conditions unrelated to antiviral immunity may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how bacteria utilize unique protein processes, similar to those in humans, to defend against viral infections. By examining the role of ubiquitination-like mechanisms in bacterial antiviral immunity, the study aims to uncover the molecular pathways that enable bacteria to recognize and combat viral threats. The approach involves a multidisciplinary strategy that combines biochemistry, bioinformatics, and cellular biology to analyze these immune responses at a detailed level. Patients may benefit from insights gained into these processes, which could inform the development of new antiviral therapies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative strategies for enhancing antiviral treatments in humans.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of investigating bacterial antiviral immunity through ubiquitination-like processes is relatively novel, similar research has shown promise in understanding immune responses in other contexts.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Colorado
Boulder, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sullivan, Ashley Elizabeth — University of Colorado
- Study coordinator: Sullivan, Ashley Elizabeth
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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.