How bacteria organize their DNA

Investigating regulators of bacterial chromosome organization

NIH-funded research University of Washington · NIH-11143038

This research helps us understand how bacteria pack their genetic material, which could lead to new ways to fight infections.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Washington NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Seattle, United States)
Project IDNIH-11143038 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

Bacteria are tiny, but their DNA is very long and must be carefully folded to fit inside their cells. We want to learn the secrets of how bacteria organize their DNA, especially how it coils and what proteins help structure it. By understanding these processes, we hope to find new weaknesses in bacteria. This knowledge could help us develop new medicines to treat bacterial infections more effectively.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: This foundational research does not involve direct patient participation but aims to benefit anyone affected by bacterial infections in the future.

Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment options for bacterial infections will not directly benefit from this early-stage laboratory research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this work could uncover new targets for developing much-needed antibiotics to combat bacterial infections.

How similar studies have performed: This work builds on recent discoveries by the researchers, addressing challenges where previous tools and knowledge were limited.

Where this research is happening

Seattle, 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 2026-06-09 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.