How bacteria resist antibiotics through their protective outer layer

The interplay between cell envelope protein homeostasis and antibiotic resistance in Gram-negative bacteria

NIH-funded research University of Texas at Austin · NIH-10974028

This study is looking at how certain proteins in the outer layer of Gram-negative bacteria help them resist antibiotics, which could lead to new ways to fight infections for people dealing with antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Texas at Austin NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Austin, United States)
Project IDNIH-10974028 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how the outer layer of Gram-negative bacteria, which acts as a barrier against antibiotics, contributes to antibiotic resistance. The study focuses on the proteins within this layer that help bacteria survive antibiotic treatments. By examining the interactions between these resistance proteins and the systems that maintain protein stability, the research aims to uncover new insights into bacterial survival mechanisms. The approach includes laboratory experiments using various bacterial strains to understand the role of specific proteins in resistance.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from infections caused by antibiotic-resistant Gram-negative bacteria, such as Acinetobacter baumannii.

Not a fit: Patients with infections caused by Gram-positive bacteria or those not affected by antibiotic resistance may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for overcoming antibiotic resistance in bacterial infections.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding bacterial resistance mechanisms, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Austin, 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.