Exploring how certain microbes can conduct electricity
Understanding and using microbial conductive nanowires
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA AT BIRMINGHAM · NIH-11175862
This study is exploring how tiny wires made by a special bacterium can carry electricity over long distances, which could help create new medical tools and materials to improve health monitoring and treatment for patients.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA AT BIRMINGHAM (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BIRMINGHAM, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11175862 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the unique ability of microbial nanowires, specifically from the bacterium Geobacter sulfurreducens, to transport electrons over long distances. By identifying and characterizing these conductive filaments, the study aims to understand their structure and function using advanced techniques like cryogenic electron microscopy. The findings could lead to innovative applications in medicine, such as developing biocompatible materials and biosensors that can improve health monitoring and treatment. Patients may benefit from new technologies that utilize these microbial properties for better diagnostic tools.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals interested in cutting-edge medical technologies and those with conditions that could be monitored or treated using biosensors.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to microbial interactions or those not requiring advanced biosensor technologies may not receive direct benefits from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of advanced medical devices and materials that enhance patient care.
How similar studies have performed: While the application of microbial nanowires in medicine is a relatively novel approach, there have been successful studies exploring their properties in other contexts, indicating potential for breakthroughs.
Where this research is happening
BIRMINGHAM, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA AT BIRMINGHAM — BIRMINGHAM, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: WANG, FENGBIN — UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA AT BIRMINGHAM
- Study coordinator: WANG, FENGBIN
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 below.