Investigating how RNA viruses infect bacteria.
RNA penetrations into bacteria.
['FUNDING_R01'] · TEXAS A&M AGRILIFE RESEARCH · NIH-10881755
This study is looking at how certain viruses that infect bacteria find their way into the bacteria and deliver their genetic material, which could help us develop new ways to fight infections that don't respond to antibiotics.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | TEXAS A&M AGRILIFE RESEARCH (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (College Station, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10881755 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research explores the mechanisms by which single-stranded RNA bacteriophages infect bacteria, specifically focusing on how these viruses recognize their bacterial hosts and deliver their RNA into the bacterial cells. The study will examine the role of retractile pili, which are structures on the surface of bacteria that facilitate infection. By using advanced techniques like cryo-electron microscopy, the researchers aim to uncover the molecular details of the infection process, which could lead to new strategies for combating antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from infections caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria, such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa or Acinetobacter species.
Not a fit: Patients with infections caused by bacteria that are not targeted by the specific bacteriophages being studied may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments for bacterial infections, particularly those caused by antibiotic-resistant strains.
How similar studies have performed: While the mechanisms of infection for some model bacteriophages have been studied, this research is exploring novel aspects of ssRNA phage interactions with bacteria, making it a potentially groundbreaking investigation.
Where this research is happening
College Station, UNITED STATES
- TEXAS A&M AGRILIFE RESEARCH — College Station, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: ZHANG, JUNJIE — TEXAS A&M AGRILIFE RESEARCH
- Study coordinator: ZHANG, JUNJIE
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.
Conditions: Bacterial Infections