Investigating how bacteria share genetic traits that can cause disease.
DNA transduction in intestinal microbiomes and the spread of pathogenicity traits
This study is looking at how bacteria share genes that can make them resistant to antibiotics and more harmful, using a new method to watch this process happen in real-time, which could help us understand how these changes affect our health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-10810995 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how bacteria transfer genetic material, particularly those traits that can lead to antibiotic resistance and virulence. By using a novel technique called transductomics, the researchers aim to measure the ongoing transfer of DNA between bacteria in real-time. This approach will help identify which bacterial viruses are involved in this process and how they contribute to the spread of harmful traits within microbial communities. The findings could provide insights into the dynamics of bacterial evolution and its implications for human health.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with infections caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria or those at risk of such infections.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have any bacterial infections or are not at risk of antibiotic resistance may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better strategies for managing antibiotic resistance and preventing the spread of pathogenic traits in bacteria.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in understanding horizontal gene transfer in bacteria, but the specific approach of transductomics is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Aurora, UNITED STATES
- University of Colorado Denver — Aurora, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Duerkop, Breck a — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Duerkop, Breck 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 below.