How host-microbe interactions lead to new biological innovations
Evolutionary innovations from host-microbe interactions
This study looks at how harmful germs interact with the bodies they infect and how our bodies fight back, with the goal of finding new ways to help treat infections using the natural tools our genes provide.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Utah NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Salt Lake City, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10763376 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the evolutionary relationship between microbes and their hosts, focusing on how pathogenic microbes manipulate host cell functions and how hosts develop defenses against these infections. By analyzing the genetic innovations that arise from this ongoing conflict, the research aims to uncover new biological tools that can be used in medicine, such as antibodies and antiviral functions. The approach combines computational and experimental methods to explore these interactions and identify new antimicrobial functions in various mammalian genomes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with infections caused by pathogenic microbes or those at risk of such infections.
Not a fit: Patients with non-infectious diseases or conditions unrelated to microbial infections may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of novel antiviral and antimicrobial therapies that improve patient outcomes in infectious diseases.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in utilizing host-microbe interactions to develop new therapeutic approaches, indicating that this line of investigation is promising.
Where this research is happening
Salt Lake City, United States
- University of Utah — Salt Lake City, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Elde, Nels C. — University of Utah
- Study coordinator: Elde, Nels C.
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.