Identifying weaknesses in harmful bacteria to improve treatment options
Official title: Infection-Dependent Vulnerabilities of Gram-negative Bacterial Pathogens
Funded at University of Colorado · NIH-11059731 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how tiny molecules can help fight Salmonella infections by making the bacteria more vulnerable to our immune system, which could lead to better treatments that work alongside current antibiotics.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boulder, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | August 7, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $132,253 |
| NIH project number | 3R01AI168916-02S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11059731 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from infections caused by Gram-negative bacteria, particularly those with Salmonella infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with infections caused by Gram-positive bacteria or those who do not have bacterial infections may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how certain small molecules can exploit the vulnerabilities of Gram-negative bacteria, specifically Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium, during infections. By using cell culture models, the researchers aim to understand how these bacteria survive within human cells and how they can be targeted more effectively. The study focuses on the interaction between the bacteria and the host's immune system, exploring how the immune response can make the bacteria more susceptible to treatment. If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies that enhance the effectiveness of existing antibiotics.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for infections caused by Gram-negative bacteria, potentially reducing antibiotic resistance.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in targeting bacterial vulnerabilities, suggesting that this approach could lead to significant advancements in treatment.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Colorado
Boulder, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Detweiler, Corrella S — University of Colorado
- Study coordinator: Detweiler, Corrella S
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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.