How bacteria transport essential nutrients like methionine

Mechanisms of Substrate Selectivity and Transport by a Bacterial Methionine ABC Importer

NIH-funded research University of San Francisco · NIH-10896184

This study looks at how E. coli bacteria take in important nutrients like methionine, which they need to survive, and it could help find new ways to treat bacterial infections.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of San Francisco NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Francisco, United States)
Project IDNIH-10896184 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how bacterial cells, specifically E. coli, transport vital nutrients such as methionine from their environment into their cells. By examining the mechanisms of ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters, the study aims to understand how these transporters select and move various substrates against concentration gradients. The research employs biochemical and biophysical methods to explore the functionality of the MetNI transporter, which is crucial for bacterial survival. The findings could reveal new treatment targets for bacterial infections.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with bacterial infections or conditions related to bacterial pathogen resistance.

Not a fit: Patients with viral infections or non-bacterial related health issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating bacterial infections by targeting nutrient transport mechanisms.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in understanding transport mechanisms in bacteria, making this approach promising yet still exploring novel aspects.

Where this research is happening

San Francisco, 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 2026-06-15 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.