How Staphylococcus aureus senses low oxygen and controls its harmful behavior
Molecular Mechanisms Regulating Bacterial Two-component Signaling Systems
Researchers are working to learn how Staph bacteria detect low-oxygen and stress signals so people with Staph infections might get better treatments in the future.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Iowa NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Iowa City, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11284012 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
The team will focus on a bacterial sensor protein called SrrB that helps Staphylococcus aureus respond to low oxygen and nitrosative stress. They will map how SrrB detects signals and changes gene activity that control virulence factors and biofilm formation. Experiments will use purified proteins, bacterial cultures, biochemical assays, and likely animal models to connect molecular events to infection outcomes. Results aim to reveal steps that could be targeted to reduce the bacterium's ability to cause disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with current, recurrent, or severe Staphylococcus aureus infections—especially hospital-associated cases—would be most relevant to potential future clinical work based on these findings.
Not a fit: People with infections caused by other bacteria or unrelated health issues are unlikely to see direct benefits from this specific project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to new ways to block Staph virulence and lead to treatments that reduce severe infections and complications.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown two-component systems control bacterial virulence, but translating those findings into therapies is still early-stage and experimental.
Where this research is happening
Iowa City, United States
- University of Iowa — Iowa City, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fuentes, Ernesto Jorge — University of Iowa
- Study coordinator: Fuentes, Ernesto Jorge
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.