How bacteria organize their DNA
Official title: Molecular basis of bacterial chromosome segregation and organization
Funded at University of Texas Rio Grande Valley · NIH-11131258 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This research explores how bacteria organize and share their genetic material, which could help us understand diseases like cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Rio Grande Valley NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Edinburg, United States) |
| Project start | September 15, 2021 |
| Project end | July 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $366,693 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM143093-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11131258 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Patients interested in the fundamental biological processes that contribute to diseases like cancer may find this research relevant.
✕Less likely to help
Patients seeking immediate treatment options or direct clinical interventions will not find direct benefit from this foundational research.
What this research studies
Our cells, like bacteria, need to carefully organize their DNA to function properly and pass it on when they divide. This project looks closely at how bacteria manage their DNA, specifically focusing on proteins that help structure and separate their chromosomes. We are learning about a specific system in bacteria, called ParABS, and how a protein called ParB helps DNA spread and organize. Understanding these basic processes in bacteria could give us clues about similar processes in human cells and how they go wrong in diseases like cancer.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: This work could provide fundamental insights into how DNA organization impacts cell health, potentially leading to new ways to understand and address diseases like cancer.
How similar studies have gone: This project builds on existing knowledge about bacterial chromosome organization, incorporating recent discoveries to explore new aspects of how DNA is managed.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Edinburg, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kim, Hyeongjun — University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
- Study coordinator: Kim, Hyeongjun
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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.