Investigating how ions affect the function of ribosomes and their interaction with antibiotics
Official title: Effects of ions on mRNA elements, ribosomes and antibiotic-RNA interactions
Funded at Triad National Security, LLC · NIH-11012219 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how ribosomes, the tiny machines in our cells that make proteins, work when faced with drug-resistant bacteria, and it aims to find out how certain ions, like magnesium, affect this process, which could help us develop better ways to fight antibiotic resistance.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Triad National Security, LLC NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Alamos, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | June 15, 2025 |
| Project end | May 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $658,165 |
| NIH project number | 1R35GM156585-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11012219 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from infections caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with infections that are not caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the mechanisms by which ribosomes translate mRNA into proteins, particularly in the context of drug-resistant bacteria. By utilizing advanced techniques like time-resolved cryo-electron microscopy and large-scale molecular simulations, the study aims to uncover how ions influence ribosome function and antibiotic interactions. The research seeks to answer critical questions about tRNA selection and the role of magnesium ions in these processes, which could lead to new insights into combating antibiotic resistance.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for treating infections caused by drug-resistant bacteria.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in understanding ribosome function and antibiotic interactions, making this approach a continuation of established scientific inquiry.
Where this research is happening
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Triad National Security, LLC
Los Alamos, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sanbonmatsu, Karissa Y — Triad National Security, LLC
- Study coordinator: Sanbonmatsu, Karissa Y
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.