Investigating how a bacterial protein influences the formation of tiny membrane vesicles
Official title: Multi-disciplinary analysis of the role of PagC for outer membrane vesicle biogenesis
Funded at Medical College of Wisconsin · NIH-11065944 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a certain protein in bacteria helps them create tiny bubbles called outer membrane vesicles, which are important for how bacteria communicate and react to their surroundings, and the findings could help in developing vaccines and treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Medical College of Wisconsin NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Milwaukee, United States) |
| Project start | December 1, 2024 |
| Project end | November 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $73,828 |
| NIH project number | 1F32AI188770-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11065944 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals affected by bacterial infections or those at risk of such infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with viral infections or non-bacterial diseases may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of a specific bacterial protein, PagC, in the formation of outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) produced by bacteria. These vesicles are important for bacterial communication and response to environmental stresses. The study employs advanced techniques, including molecular dynamics simulations, to explore how PagC induces changes in the bacterial membrane that lead to vesicle production. By uncovering the mechanisms behind OMV biogenesis, the research aims to provide insights that could inform vaccine development and other therapeutic strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of new vaccines or treatments targeting bacterial infections.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding bacterial vesicle formation, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Medical College of Wisconsin
Milwaukee, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wood, Nicholas a — Medical College of Wisconsin
- Study coordinator: Wood, Nicholas a
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.