Investigating a protein's role in antibiotic resistance in pneumonia-causing bacteria

Role of Prp protease in the S. pneumoniae ribosome

NIH-funded research University of Alabama at Birmingham · NIH-11015521

This study is looking at how a protein called Prp works with the ribosome in a bacteria that can cause respiratory infections, with the goal of finding new ways to create antibiotics to help fight against antibiotic resistance.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Birmingham, United States)
Project IDNIH-11015521 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how a specific protein, Prp, interacts with the ribosome in Streptococcus pneumoniae, a major cause of respiratory infections. The study aims to explore the cleavage of a protein component, L27, which is crucial for the bacteria's survival and function. By examining this process, researchers hope to uncover new targets for antibiotic development, addressing the growing issue of antibiotic resistance. The methodology includes advanced techniques like cryo-electron microscopy to visualize these interactions at a molecular level.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from infections caused by antibiotic-resistant strains of Streptococcus pneumoniae.

Not a fit: Patients with infections caused by non-Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria or those who are not affected by antibiotic resistance may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of novel antibiotics that effectively combat antibiotic-resistant strains of S. pneumoniae.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in targeting ribosomal components for antibiotic development, indicating that this approach could yield significant results.

Where this research is happening

Birmingham, 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.
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.