How a bacterial stress signal helps some Gram-positive bacteria survive antibiotics
The critical roles of (p)ppGpp in homeostasis and antibiotic tolerance in Gram positive bacteria
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON · NIH-11317027
This research looks into how a bacterial signal called (p)ppGpp helps Gram‑positive bacteria survive antibiotics and other stresses, aiming to help people with bacterial infections.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (MADISON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11317027 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Researchers will measure how levels of the signaling molecule (p)ppGpp change in Gram‑positive bacteria under stress and antibiotic exposure. They will use bacterial cultures, genetic manipulation, and biochemical tests to find which bacterial enzymes and processes are controlled by (p)ppGpp. The team will compare effects across Bacillus species and other pathogens and examine how (p)ppGpp influences switching between free‑living and biofilm lifestyles. Results are intended to reveal molecular steps that make bacteria tolerant to antibiotics and guide future treatment strategies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with recurrent or hard‑to‑treat Gram‑positive bacterial infections (for example persistent Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, or Bacillus infections) are most likely to benefit from advances arising from this research.
Not a fit: Patients with viral illnesses or infections caused by Gram‑negative bacteria would be unlikely to benefit directly from these findings.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could identify new targets or strategies to make antibiotics more effective against tolerant Gram‑positive infections.
How similar studies have performed: Prior laboratory studies have shown (p)ppGpp controls bacterial stress responses and contributes to antibiotic tolerance, so this project builds on established findings while mapping specific molecular targets and links to biofilm behavior.
Where this research is happening
MADISON, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON — MADISON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: WANG, JUE D. — UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON
- Study coordinator: WANG, JUE D.
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.