Identifying weaknesses in harmful bacteria to improve treatment options

Infection-Dependent Vulnerabilities of Gram-negative Bacterial Pathogens

NIH-funded research University of Colorado · NIH-11059731

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 typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Colorado NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boulder, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-11059731 on NIH RePORTER

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.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from infections caused by Gram-negative bacteria, particularly those with Salmonella infections.

Not a fit: Patients with infections caused by Gram-positive bacteria or those who do not have bacterial infections may not benefit from this research.

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 performed: 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

Boulder, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Bacterial Infections
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.