Investigating how bacteria interact in the lungs of cystic fibrosis patients

The role of secreted factors on polymicrobial interactions between pathogens of the cystic fibrosis airway

NIH-funded research National Cancer Institute · NIH-10712091

This study is looking at how two types of bacteria that often live in the lungs of people with cystic fibrosis talk to each other and how that affects lung health, with the hope of finding better ways to manage lung infections for those with the condition.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNational Cancer Institute NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Bethesda, United States)
Project IDNIH-10712091 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the interactions between two bacteria, Stenotrophomonas maltophilia and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which are commonly found in the lungs of patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). The study aims to explore how these bacteria communicate through secreted factors and how this affects their behavior and the overall health of the lung environment. By examining the genetic responses of these bacteria to each other, the research seeks to uncover mechanisms that could influence disease progression in CF patients. This work may lead to new insights into managing lung infections in CF.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with cystic fibrosis who experience chronic lung infections.

Not a fit: Patients without cystic fibrosis or those not experiencing polymicrobial lung infections may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for treating lung infections in cystic fibrosis patients.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding bacterial interactions in similar contexts, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Bethesda, 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 Airway infections
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 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.