Exploring natural products to fight cholera bacteria.
Official title: Vibrio microcins. A hidden field of targeted anti-cholerae natural products.
Funded at University of Texas at Austin · NIH-11097208 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how tiny proteins called microcins can help fight cholera by breaking through the tough defenses of the bacteria that cause it, with the hope of creating new treatments for people affected by cholera, especially in areas where it’s common.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas at Austin NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Austin, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $744,990 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI182365-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11097208 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living in areas with high rates of cholera infection or those at risk of exposure to Vibrio cholerae.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not affected by cholera or who live in regions where cholera is not a concern may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the potential of microcins, a type of small antibacterial protein, to combat cholera caused by the Vibrio cholerae bacteria. The project aims to understand how these proteins can penetrate the tough outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria, which is a significant barrier to antibiotic treatment. By leveraging the unique properties of microcins, the research seeks to develop new antibacterial agents that can effectively target and eliminate cholera pathogens. Patients may benefit from innovative treatments that arise from this work, especially in regions where cholera outbreaks are prevalent.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new, effective treatments for cholera, significantly reducing infection rates and improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using similar approaches with bacteriocins, indicating potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas at Austin
Austin, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Davies, Bryan William — University of Texas at Austin
- Study coordinator: Davies, Bryan William
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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.