How cells change shape and mechanics to survive stress
Biophysical models and mechanisms for cellular adaptation to environmental stress
This project builds computer models and uses lab data to explain how bacteria and tiny animal cells change their shape and physical properties to survive stresses like antibiotics or low energy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Georgia Institute of Technology NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11089556 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
From my perspective, the team is trying to understand how a cell's physical shape and mechanical properties help it survive when conditions get tough. They will combine math and physics-based models with laboratory measurements and data analysis to make predictive computer models. The work looks at two systems: bacteria facing nutrient shifts and antibiotic stress, and developing worm embryos dealing with energy loss. The aim is to turn experimental observations into quantitative rules that could point to new ways to influence cell survival.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients with infections caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria are the most likely to benefit from discoveries that change how antibiotics work.
Not a fit: People with health issues unrelated to infections or cellular stress are unlikely to see direct benefit from this basic laboratory-focused research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal new targets or strategies to overcome antibiotic resistance and make treatments more effective.
How similar studies have performed: Earlier lab studies have shown that cell shape and mechanics can change stress survival, but using integrated, physics-based computational models across bacteria and embryos is relatively new.
Where this research is happening
Atlanta, United States
- Georgia Institute of Technology — Atlanta, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Banerjee, Shiladitya — Georgia Institute of Technology
- Study coordinator: Banerjee, Shiladitya
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 below.