How surface-associated microbes adapt and evolve in dense populations
Official title: Evolutionary adaptation of dense microbial populations to range expansion
Funded at Cornell University · NIH-10913345 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how a type of yeast changes and grows better on surfaces, which could help us understand how tiny organisms adapt and thrive in crowded places, and this information might be useful for improving health and technology.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Cornell University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ithaca, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $48,974 |
| NIH project number | 5F31GM151814-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10913345 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for benefiting from this research include individuals with conditions influenced by microbial populations, such as infections or those undergoing treatments that involve microbial therapies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to microbial dynamics or those not affected by microbial therapies may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how microbial populations, specifically budding yeast, adapt to grow more efficiently on surfaces. By conducting experiments that simulate range expansion, the researchers observe changes in cell shape and growth patterns, which may enhance their ability to thrive in dense environments. The study aims to uncover the genetic changes that lead to these adaptations and how they influence interactions among cells. This knowledge could provide insights into the evolutionary dynamics of microbes that are important for human health and technology.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding of microbial behavior that may enhance biotechnological applications and health outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in understanding microbial evolution and adaptation, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Cornell University
Ithaca, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Randolph, Katie Elaine — Cornell University
- Study coordinator: Randolph, Katie Elaine
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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.