Investigating how Acinetobacter baumannii bacteria are stored in the human body

Acinetobacter baumannii reservoirs within the host

['FUNDING_R21'] · WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY · NIH-11098535

This study is looking at how a type of bacteria that can cause serious infections in hospitals might be hiding in bladder cells, even in people who don’t show any symptoms, so we can find ways to stop these infections from spreading in healthcare settings.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorWASHINGTON UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SAINT LOUIS, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11098535 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research explores how the bacteria Acinetobacter baumannii, known for causing serious infections in hospitals, can be hidden within the human body, particularly in bladder cells. The study aims to understand how these bacteria can remain undetected and potentially reactivate after medical procedures, leading to infections. By using mouse models, researchers will investigate the conditions under which these bacteria can be introduced into hospitals from patients who may not show symptoms. The goal is to identify reservoirs of infection that could help prevent outbreaks in healthcare settings.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients who have undergone medical procedures that may involve catheterization or those with a history of Acinetobacter baumannii infections.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have a history of Acinetobacter baumannii infections or who are not undergoing relevant medical procedures may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing hospital-acquired infections caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding bacterial reservoirs can lead to successful infection control strategies, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

SAINT LOUIS, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Airway infections

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.