Understanding how a dangerous bacteria, Acinetobacter baumannii, becomes harmful
CsrA mediated regulation of a virulence switch in Acinetobacter baumannii
This research explores how the bacteria Acinetobacter baumannii can change to become more dangerous, especially since it's often resistant to antibiotics.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11110497 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Acinetobacter baumannii is a common cause of serious infections in hospitals, and it's becoming increasingly difficult to treat because it resists many antibiotics. Our team has found that this bacteria can quickly switch between a harmful and a less harmful state. This project aims to understand the specific signals and processes within the bacteria that control this switch, focusing on a key regulatory system called GacSA and a protein called CsrA. By uncovering these mechanisms, we hope to find new ways to fight these challenging infections.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Future patients suffering from severe Acinetobacter baumannii infections, particularly those resistant to current antibiotics, could potentially benefit from this foundational research.
Not a fit: Patients currently undergoing treatment for Acinetobacter baumannii infections will not receive direct benefit from this basic laboratory research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new strategies for developing treatments against highly antibiotic-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii infections.
How similar studies have performed: The researchers have previously demonstrated the bacteria's ability to switch between virulent and avirulent states, indicating a foundation for this current investigation.
Where this research is happening
Atlanta, United States
- Emory University — Atlanta, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rather, Philip N. — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Rather, Philip N.
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.