How the fat composition in our bodies affects the resistance of Staphylococcus aureus to antibiotics
Official title: Impacts of host lipid composition on antimicrobial susceptibilities of Staphylococcus aureus
Funded at University of Georgia · NIH-10977063 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the fats in our bodies affect the growth of Staphylococcus aureus bacteria, including the tough-to-treat MRSA, to help find better ways to prevent and treat infections for patients like you.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Georgia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Athens, United States) |
| Project start | December 14, 2022 |
| Project end | November 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $471,568 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI173144-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10977063 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who have experienced infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus, particularly those with recurrent or resistant infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with infections caused by bacteria other than Staphylococcus aureus may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between the lipid composition in the human body and the susceptibility of Staphylococcus aureus, particularly focusing on both methicillin-resistant (MRSA) and methicillin-susceptible strains (MSSA). The study aims to understand how these bacteria utilize host-derived fatty acids for their growth and survival, which could lead to new strategies for preventing and treating infections. By examining the fatty acid content in various tissues, the research seeks to uncover mechanisms that contribute to antibiotic resistance. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to more effective treatments for infections caused by these bacteria.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment options for patients suffering from antibiotic-resistant Staphylococcus aureus infections.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific focus on host lipid composition and its impact on Staphylococcus aureus is relatively novel, previous studies have shown success in understanding bacterial resistance mechanisms, indicating potential for meaningful advancements.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Georgia
Athens, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hines, Kelly M. — University of Georgia
- Study coordinator: Hines, Kelly M.
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.