How mucus affects the behavior of bacteria in the lungs

Multi-scale model of microbial phenotype modulation by mucins

NIH-funded research University of Virginia · NIH-10850772

This study looks at how mucus in the lungs affects bacteria, especially for people with cystic fibrosis, to find out how we can improve treatments for lung infections by better understanding these interactions.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Virginia NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Charlottesville, United States)
Project IDNIH-10850772 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how mucins, which are key components of mucus, influence the behavior of bacteria in the lungs. By developing a multi-scale computational model, the researchers aim to understand the interactions between mucins and microbial phenotypes, particularly in the context of diseases like cystic fibrosis. The study will explore how these interactions affect gene regulation and metabolism in bacteria, providing insights that could lead to better treatments for lung infections. Patients may benefit from a deeper understanding of how mucus can be manipulated to improve bacterial clearance.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with cystic fibrosis or other lung diseases characterized by mucus clearance issues.

Not a fit: Patients without lung diseases or those not affected by mucus-related infections may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for enhancing lung health and treating infections in patients with conditions like cystic fibrosis.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the role of mucus in lung health, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Charlottesville, 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.
Conditions Cancersneoplasm/cancerDisorder
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.