Investigating how bacteria attach to surfaces to prevent infections
Official title: The Structure, Orientation, and Competitive Interactions of S. Epidermidis Biofilm Proteins on Surfaces
Funded at Mississippi State University · NIH-11125014 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a common bacteria can stick to surfaces, which can cause infections in hip and knee replacements, and it aims to find ways to stop this from happening, especially using a material often found in medical implants.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Mississippi State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Mississippi State, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $417,253 |
| NIH project number | 2R56AI139479-06 |
| Project ID | NIH-11125014 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients undergoing orthopedic or dental procedures involving implants, particularly those at risk for infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not require implants or are not at risk for biofilm-related infections may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how the bacteria Staphylococcus epidermidis attach to surfaces, which is a critical first step in the formation of biofilms that can lead to infections, particularly in hip and knee replacements. The study examines the binding mechanisms of specific proteins involved in this process and explores ways to inhibit their attachment to surfaces, especially using poly-methylmethacrylate (PMMA), a material commonly used in medical implants. By analyzing how these proteins interact with nanoparticles, the research aims to uncover new strategies to prevent biofilm formation and improve patient outcomes in orthopedic and dental procedures.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative methods for preventing infections associated with medical implants, significantly improving patient safety and recovery.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding bacterial attachment and biofilm prevention, indicating that this approach could yield significant advancements.
Where this research is happening
-
Mississippi State University
Mississippi State, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fitzkee, Nicholas C — Mississippi State University
- Study coordinator: Fitzkee, Nicholas C
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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.