Exploring unique bacteria to find new natural medicines
Methylotrophs: underexplored bacteria for discovering novel natural products and biochemistry
This study is exploring special bacteria that use methane to find new natural products that could help create new antibiotics and treatments for infections, which could be really helpful for patients facing antibiotic resistance.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Utah NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Salt Lake City, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10871902 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates methylotrophs, a type of bacteria that utilize methane and other reduced carbon compounds, to discover new natural products that could lead to novel antibiotics and treatments. The researchers will analyze a collection of unique bacterial strains and employ advanced genetic and metabolomic tools to identify compounds with therapeutic potential. By screening these compounds for bioactivity, the study aims to address the growing issue of antibiotic resistance and the need for new medications. Patients may benefit from new treatments derived from these discoveries.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from infections caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have infections or those who are not affected by antibiotic resistance may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of new antibiotics and therapies that effectively combat antibiotic-resistant infections.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in discovering new antibiotics from underexplored bacterial sources, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Salt Lake City, United States
- University of Utah — Salt Lake City, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Puri, Aaron Webster — University of Utah
- Study coordinator: Puri, Aaron Webster
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.