How skin bacteria communicate to protect against infections
Quorum sensing, diversity and skin inflammation
This study is looking at how friendly bacteria on our skin work together to keep harmful bacteria from causing problems, and it aims to find new ways to help improve skin health and boost our immune system.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-10830314 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how certain bacteria on the skin, known as coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS), communicate with each other to prevent harmful bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus from causing skin damage. The study focuses on a specific communication system called quorum sensing, which allows these bacteria to coordinate their actions. By understanding how CoNS produce signals that inhibit the harmful bacteria, researchers aim to uncover new ways to enhance skin health and immune defense. The research involves identifying the genetic mechanisms behind these interactions and their implications for skin inflammation.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with skin conditions that may be influenced by bacterial infections, particularly those involving Staphylococcus aureus.
Not a fit: Patients with skin conditions not related to bacterial infections or those who do not have a significant presence of Staphylococcus aureus may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing skin infections and improving skin health.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding bacterial communication can lead to breakthroughs in managing infections, suggesting that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Aurora, UNITED STATES
- University of Colorado Denver — Aurora, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Horswill, Alexander R — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Horswill, Alexander R
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.