How Staph aureus enzyme SplB hijacks host cells
The Molecular Basis of Staphylococcus aureus SplB manipulation of the host
Researchers will reveal how a Staphylococcus aureus enzyme called SplB changes human proteins during infection to help find ways to block its harm.
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-11327298 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project uses advanced lab tools, including NMR and biochemical protein assays, to find which human proteins SplB binds or cuts and how those interactions change the shape of the enzyme. First, the team will identify SplB targets in host cells; next, they will map the conformational shifts that occur when SplB engages those targets and how its N-terminal switch turns the enzyme on. The work is basic laboratory research using purified proteins and cell-derived samples to define the molecular steps SplB uses to manipulate host biology. Results aim to reveal specific points where medicines could block SplB during Staph infections.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with current or recent Staphylococcus aureus infections or those willing to provide clinical samples for laboratory analysis would be the most relevant candidates to contribute to this work.
Not a fit: Patients without Staph exposure or those needing immediate clinical treatment are unlikely to see direct benefit from this basic laboratory research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could point to new targets for drugs or diagnostics that reduce damage from Staphylococcus aureus infections.
How similar studies have performed: Prior structural studies have described Spl family features and some lab groups used similar NMR methods, but targeting SplB’s activation mechanism remains largely novel.
Where this research is happening
Aurora, UNITED STATES
- University of Colorado Denver — Aurora, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Eisenmesser, Elan Z — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Eisenmesser, Elan Z
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.