How bacteria manage protein production during times of rest

Regulation of protein synthesis during quiescence in bacteria

NIH-funded research Columbia University Health Sciences · NIH-11005286

This study looks at how a type of bacteria called Bacillus subtilis manages to save energy and resources when it's not growing, helping us understand how they survive tough conditions and quickly bounce back when things get better.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionColumbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-11005286 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how bacteria, specifically Bacillus subtilis, regulate protein synthesis when they are not actively growing. It focuses on the mechanisms that allow these bacteria to conserve energy and resources during periods of quiescence, which is essential for their survival in nutrient-limited or stressful environments. The study aims to understand the balance between reducing protein production and being able to quickly resume it when conditions improve. By examining the energy-intensive process of protein synthesis, the research seeks to uncover how bacteria adapt their metabolic processes to ensure survival.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research would be individuals interested in microbial health or those affected by bacterial infections.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to bacterial infections or microbial metabolism may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for managing bacterial growth and survival, which may have implications for antibiotic development and microbial management.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in understanding bacterial metabolism and regulation, indicating that this approach is built on established scientific principles.

Where this research is happening

New York, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.