Understanding gene expression in complex bacterial communities
Single-cell transcriptomics of complex bacterial communities
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · INSTITUTE FOR SYSTEMS BIOLOGY · NIH-10884925
This study is looking at how different bacteria in a community behave and interact with each other by measuring their gene activity, using a new technology that helps scientists see what's happening in thousands of bacteria at once, which could help us learn more about how they communicate and share genes.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | INSTITUTE FOR SYSTEMS BIOLOGY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SEATTLE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10884925 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how gene expression varies among individual bacteria within complex communities, which is crucial for understanding their behavior and interactions. By utilizing a novel technology called microSPLiT, the researchers can measure gene expression in thousands of individual bacterial cells simultaneously. This approach allows for a deeper understanding of how bacteria communicate and transfer genes within their environments, which is essential for advancing microbiome studies and microbial ecology. The findings could lead to new insights into bacterial behavior that are not observable through traditional methods.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions influenced by bacterial communities, such as gastrointestinal disorders or infections caused by complex bacterial populations.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to bacterial communities or those not affected by microbiome dynamics may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of bacterial interactions and lead to improved treatments for infections and diseases related to the microbiome.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in using single-cell transcriptomics to study simpler bacterial cultures, but this approach in complex communities is relatively novel and untested.
Where this research is happening
SEATTLE, UNITED STATES
- INSTITUTE FOR SYSTEMS BIOLOGY — SEATTLE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: KUCHINA, ANNA — INSTITUTE FOR SYSTEMS BIOLOGY
- Study coordinator: KUCHINA, ANNA
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.