How bacteria interact with their environment using tiny structures
Molecular mechanisms of physical interactions between bacteria and their surroundings
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA · NIH-10930845
This study is looking at how certain bacteria, like Caulobacter crescentus and Vibrio cholerae, use tiny structures called type IV pili to sense and react to their surroundings, which could help us understand how they behave and interact in different environments.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (ATHENS, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10930845 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how bacteria sense and respond to their surroundings through specialized structures called type IV pili (T4P). By studying various bacteria, including Caulobacter crescentus and Vibrio cholerae, the research aims to understand the molecular mechanisms that allow these bacteria to adapt to different environments. The approach combines genetics, cell biology, biophysics, and biochemical techniques to explore the dynamics and regulation of T4P. This knowledge could provide insights into bacterial behavior and interactions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients with infections caused by bacteria that utilize type IV pili, such as Acinetobacter or Vibrio cholerae, would be ideal candidates to benefit from this research.
Not a fit: Patients with infections caused by bacteria that do not utilize type IV pili may not receive benefits from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for controlling bacterial infections and improving treatments.
How similar studies have performed: While the study of type IV pili is established, the specific comparative approach being taken in this research is novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
ATHENS, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA — ATHENS, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: ELLISON, COURTNEY KATHLEEN — UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA
- Study coordinator: ELLISON, COURTNEY KATHLEEN
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.