How testosterone affects Staphylococcus aureus infections
Official title: Androgens modulate Staphylococcus aureus signaling and pathogenesis
Funded at Ut Southwestern Medical Center · NIH-11023937 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how testosterone might help the Staphylococcus aureus bacteria become more harmful, which could lead to skin infections, especially in men, so we can better understand what makes these infections happen.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ut Southwestern Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Dallas, United States) |
| Project start | December 6, 2024 |
| Project end | November 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $643,614 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AI187273-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11023937 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include men who are at higher risk for Staphylococcus aureus skin infections, especially those with recurrent infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have Staphylococcus aureus infections or those who are not male may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between testosterone levels and the virulence of Staphylococcus aureus, a common cause of skin infections. It focuses on understanding how testosterone enhances the bacteria's ability to cause disease by activating specific signaling pathways. The study will utilize genetic and biochemical methods to explore these mechanisms, particularly how testosterone influences the bacteria's quorum-sensing system. By examining these interactions, the research aims to uncover new insights into the factors that contribute to skin infections, especially in men who are more frequently affected.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing and treating Staphylococcus aureus infections, particularly in men.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that hormonal factors can influence bacterial virulence, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Ut Southwestern Medical Center
Dallas, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Harris-Tryon, Tamia Alisha — Ut Southwestern Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Harris-Tryon, Tamia Alisha
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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.