How bacteria adapt to surfaces in the human body
Official title: Surface adaptation in bacterial cells
Funded at University of Wisconsin-Madison · NIH-10909280 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific type of bacteria, called Caulobacter crescentus, sticks to surfaces in our bodies, like in our mouths and lungs, to help find new ways to treat infections caused by bacteria.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Madison, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $382,090 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM150652-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10909280 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from bacterial infections, particularly those affecting the oral cavity, lungs, or other body tissues where bacteria can colonize.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-bacterial infections or those not affected by surface-associated bacterial colonization may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how bacteria, particularly Caulobacter crescentus, colonize surfaces in the human body, such as the oral cavity and lungs. The focus is on understanding the mechanisms that enable bacteria to adapt to solid surfaces, which is crucial for developing effective treatments for bacterial infections. The study employs genetic screening to identify genes involved in surface sensing and adaptation, aiming to uncover how these processes are regulated at the cellular level. By exploring the role of the flagellum in this adaptation, the research seeks to provide insights into bacterial behavior that could lead to new therapeutic strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of novel therapies targeting bacterial infections that are difficult to treat due to their ability to adhere to body surfaces.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in understanding bacterial surface adaptation, but this specific approach focusing on Caulobacter crescentus and its flagellum is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hershey, David M. — University of Wisconsin-Madison
- Study coordinator: Hershey, David M.
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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.