How gene duplication affects evolution and growth in bacteria

Gene duplication and divergence: the bigger picture

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO · NIH-10447040

This study looks at how changes in the genes of E. coli bacteria help them grow and adapt to their surroundings, which could be useful for anyone interested in understanding how bacteria evolve and survive in different environments.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF COLORADO (nih funded)
Locations1 site (Boulder, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10447040 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how gene duplication and mutations in bacteria, specifically E. coli, contribute to evolutionary changes and growth. By focusing on a model system where a newly duplicated gene is essential for growth, the study examines how mutations in both the duplicated gene and other parts of the genome interact to enhance the organism's ability to survive and thrive. The researchers will analyze how these genetic changes impact metabolic processes and overall fitness in response to environmental challenges.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals with conditions related to bacterial infections or metabolic disorders influenced by bacterial activity.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to bacterial metabolism or genetic mutations may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a better understanding of bacterial evolution and potentially inform strategies for managing bacterial growth in various applications.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding gene duplication and its effects on evolution can lead to significant insights, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Boulder, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.