How Pseudomonas bacteria change in cystic fibrosis patients' lungs
Official title: Microbial adaptation of Pseudomonas lipid A structure in CF airway disease progress
Funded at University of Maryland Baltimore · NIH-10876991 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how a specific bacteria that often infects the lungs of people with cystic fibrosis changes its structure, which can lead to ongoing infections and inflammation, and it aims to understand how these changes impact the immune system and the overall health of those with cystic fibrosis.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Maryland Baltimore NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $193,125 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI177823-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10876991 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with cystic fibrosis, particularly those experiencing chronic lung infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without cystic fibrosis or those who do not have chronic infections caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the bacteria Pseudomonas aeruginosa adapt their structure in the lungs of cystic fibrosis (CF) patients, which contributes to chronic infections and inflammation. By examining the unique lipid A structures produced by these bacteria, the study aims to understand how these adaptations affect the immune response and disease progression in CF. The research utilizes biological models to explore the relationship between bacterial adaptation and the severity of airway disease in CF patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for managing chronic infections in cystic fibrosis patients, potentially improving their lung health and quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding bacterial adaptations in chronic infections can lead to significant advancements in treatment strategies, indicating potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Maryland Baltimore
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Scott, Alison J — University of Maryland Baltimore
- Study coordinator: Scott, Alison J
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.