Investigating how bacteria stick to surfaces and each other
Official title: Structural and functional investigations of bacterial fibrillar adhesins
Funded at Washington University · NIH-11134662 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how bacteria stick to surfaces and each other, which is important for causing infections, and it aims to find new ways to stop this sticking so we can help people avoid chronic infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | July 15, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $388,750 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM155188-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11134662 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from chronic bacterial infections or those at high risk of such infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with viral infections or non-infectious conditions may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the mechanisms by which bacteria adhere to surfaces and each other, which is crucial for their ability to cause infections. It examines fibrillar adhesins, which are proteins that help bacteria attach to host tissues and form biofilms, leading to chronic infections. The study employs advanced biophysical techniques to analyze the structure and function of these adhesins, aiming to uncover potential therapeutic targets to prevent bacterial adhesion and biofilm formation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that prevent bacterial infections by targeting their adhesion mechanisms.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in targeting bacterial adhesion mechanisms, indicating that this approach has potential for meaningful advancements.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Reichhardt, Courtney — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Reichhardt, Courtney
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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.