Understanding a new structural element in E. coli chromosomes
Official title: Characterization of the RRS: a new chromosomal structural element in E. coli
Funded at University of Wisconsin-Madison · NIH-10876389 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a special part of the E. coli bacteria's DNA that might help us understand how bacteria grow and divide, which could give us clues about how infections happen.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Madison, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $198,828 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI179102-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10876389 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals with bacterial infections caused by enterobacteria.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with viral infections or non-bacterial diseases are unlikely to benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a newly discovered chromosomal structural element in E. coli known as the replication risk sequence (RRS). The study aims to characterize how these sequences influence bacterial chromosome behavior, particularly during DNA replication and segregation. By examining the role of RRS in maintaining genomic stability, the research employs genetic and molecular biology techniques to explore their function and conservation across different bacterial species. This could provide insights into bacterial growth and the mechanisms that underlie bacterial infections.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for targeting bacterial infections by disrupting essential genomic processes.
How similar studies have gone: While this research explores a novel aspect of bacterial genetics, similar studies have shown success in understanding chromosomal structures and their implications for bacterial physiology.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cox, Michael M. — University of Wisconsin-Madison
- Study coordinator: Cox, Michael M.
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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.