How metal ions affect the production of bacterial capsules
Official title: The role of metal ion homeostasis in regulating bacterial capsule production
Funded at Idaho State University · NIH-10360103 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain metal nutrients like manganese, zinc, and calcium affect the way harmful bacteria, like Streptococcus pneumoniae, produce a protective layer that helps them survive, with the goal of finding new ways to treat bacterial infections and getting undergraduate students involved in the research.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Idaho State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pocatello, United States) |
| Project start | August 10, 2022 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2022 |
| Award (this year) | $408,497 |
| NIH project number | 1R15AI149725-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10360103 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are elderly individuals who are at higher risk for bacterial infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-bacterial infections or those who do not have any underlying health conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how metal ion micronutrients, such as manganese, zinc, and calcium, influence the production of capsular polysaccharides (CPS) in pathogenic bacteria. By understanding the molecular mechanisms behind CPS production, the study aims to identify potential targets for developing new metal-based antimicrobial treatments for bacterial infections. The research uses Streptococcus pneumoniae as a model organism to explore these interactions. This work not only seeks to advance scientific knowledge but also aims to involve undergraduate students in the research process.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of innovative treatments for bacterial infections, particularly in vulnerable populations like the elderly.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of using metal ion modulation for CPS production is novel, similar studies have shown promise in understanding bacterial virulence and developing antimicrobial strategies.
Where this research is happening
-
Idaho State University
Pocatello, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Martin, Julia E. — Idaho State University
- Study coordinator: Martin, Julia E.
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.