Investigating how certain genes affect the severity of Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections
Official title: Role of ExoU island accessory genes in P. aeruginosa virulence
Funded at Case Western Reserve University · NIH-11099669 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain genes in the Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria affect its ability to cause serious eye infections and resist treatment, which could help create better ways to fight these infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Case Western Reserve University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cleveland, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $201,250 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI180421-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11099669 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with corneal infections caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa, particularly those with a history of antibiotic resistance.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with infections caused by other types of bacteria or those not affected by Pseudomonas aeruginosa may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of specific genes in the virulence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a bacterium that can cause severe eye infections leading to blindness. The study examines how these genes, particularly ExoU, influence the bacterium's ability to cause disease and resist antibiotics. By analyzing the genetic makeup of different strains, the researchers aim to uncover the mechanisms that make some strains more harmful than others. This knowledge could help in developing targeted treatments for infections caused by this pathogen.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies for patients suffering from severe bacterial eye infections.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown a correlation between the presence of ExoU and increased disease severity, indicating that this area of study has potential for significant findings.
Where this research is happening
-
Case Western Reserve University
Cleveland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rietsch, Arne — Case Western Reserve University
- Study coordinator: Rietsch, Arne
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.