How bacteria communicate and coordinate their behavior

Chemical Strategies to Modulate Intercellular Bacterial Communication

NIH-funded research University of Wisconsin-Madison · NIH-11012065

This study is looking at how bacteria talk to each other using chemical signals, which could help us find new ways to stop infections and improve treatments for patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Madison, United States)
Project IDNIH-11012065 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how bacteria use chemical signals to communicate with each other, a process known as quorum sensing. By understanding the mechanisms behind this communication, researchers aim to uncover how bacteria regulate their ability to cause infections. The study focuses on the interactions between signaling molecules and their receptors, as well as the role of these signals in both acute and chronic diseases. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new antimicrobial strategies targeting bacterial communication.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from bacterial infections or those at risk of developing such infections.

Not a fit: Patients with viral infections or non-infectious diseases may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments that disrupt harmful bacterial communication, potentially reducing infections.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting bacterial communication, indicating that this approach could lead to significant advancements in treatment.

Where this research is happening

Madison, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Acute Diseaseacute disease/disorderacute disorderbacteria infectionbacterial disease
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.