How bacteria and archaea remember and defend against viruses using CRISPR
Spacer acquisition during the type III-A CRISPR-Cas immune response
['FUNDING_R01'] · ROCKEFELLER UNIVERSITY · NIH-11019813
This study looks at how tiny organisms like bacteria and archaea remember past virus attacks using a special system called CRISPR, and it aims to understand how they keep this memory alive in their communities to better defend against future infections.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | ROCKEFELLER UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (NEW YORK, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11019813 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how bacteria and archaea use a system called CRISPR to remember past infections by viruses. When a virus attacks, these microorganisms can integrate a small piece of the virus's DNA into their own genetic material, which helps them recognize and defend against future infections. The study focuses on understanding how these memory sequences, known as spacers, are maintained in bacterial communities after the initial infection. By examining the mechanisms involved in this process, the research aims to shed light on the adaptive immune response of these organisms.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with infections caused by bacteria that utilize the CRISPR-Cas immune system, such as Staphylococcus aureus.
Not a fit: Patients with viral infections that do not involve bacteria or those who do not have infections caused by CRISPR-utilizing bacteria may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of bacterial immunity, potentially leading to new strategies for combating bacterial infections.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding CRISPR systems, indicating that this approach has the potential for significant advancements in the field.
Where this research is happening
NEW YORK, UNITED STATES
- ROCKEFELLER UNIVERSITY — NEW YORK, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: MARRAFFINI, LUCIANO A — ROCKEFELLER UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: MARRAFFINI, LUCIANO A
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.