Targeting iron balance in bacteria to fight chronic infections
Small molecules for perturbing iron homeostasis in bacterial biofilms
This study is looking for new ways to treat stubborn infections from bacteria like Acinetobacter baumannii that can form protective layers, and it aims to make these bacteria easier to kill by messing with their iron levels, which they need to survive.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Louisiana State Univ A&m Col Baton Rouge NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baton Rouge, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11010327 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing new treatments for chronic wound infections caused by bacterial biofilms, particularly those formed by Acinetobacter baumannii. The approach involves disrupting the iron homeostasis of bacteria, which is crucial for their survival and ability to form biofilms. By targeting specific proteins that regulate iron levels in bacteria, the research aims to make these pathogens more vulnerable to treatment. This innovative strategy could lead to the development of effective anti-infective agents that can overcome antibiotic resistance.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with chronic wounds infected by antibiotic-resistant bacteria, particularly those involving biofilm formation.
Not a fit: Patients with infections caused by bacteria that do not form biofilms or are not resistant to current antibiotics may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide new therapies for patients suffering from chronic infections that are difficult to treat due to antibiotic resistance.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in targeting bacterial iron homeostasis as a novel approach to combat antibiotic resistance, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
Baton Rouge, United States
- Louisiana State Univ A&m Col Baton Rouge — Baton Rouge, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rivera, Mario — Louisiana State Univ A&m Col Baton Rouge
- Study coordinator: Rivera, Mario
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.