Understanding how a new type of protein change affects bacteria like those causing dental problems
Exploring the function of novel arginine phosphorylation in streptococcal physiology
['FUNDING_R21'] · UNIVERSITY OF KANSAS MEDICAL CENTER · NIH-11167818
This project aims to discover how a newly found change in bacterial proteins helps bacteria, including those that cause dental issues, survive and cause infections.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R21'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF KANSAS MEDICAL CENTER (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (KANSAS CITY, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11167818 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Proteins in bacteria can change after they are made, a process called post-translational modification, which is important for how bacteria work and cause disease. One such change, called phosphorylation, usually happens on specific protein building blocks, but a new type involving arginine has recently been found in some bacteria. This new research focuses on understanding how this arginine phosphorylation works in Streptococcus, a group of bacteria known to cause various infections, including dental cavities. By learning more about this process, we hope to uncover new ways to fight these common bacterial infections.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients who suffer from infections caused by Streptococcus bacteria, such as dental cavities or more serious conditions, could potentially benefit from future treatments developed from this foundational knowledge.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatments for existing conditions or those without streptococcal infections would not directly benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Understanding these bacterial processes could lead to new ways to develop medicines or treatments that stop harmful bacteria from causing infections.
How similar studies have performed: While arginine phosphorylation has been found in other bacteria, its role in Streptococcus is largely unknown, making this a novel area of exploration for this specific bacterial group.
Where this research is happening
KANSAS CITY, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF KANSAS MEDICAL CENTER — KANSAS CITY, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: BISWAS, INDRANIL — UNIVERSITY OF KANSAS MEDICAL CENTER
- Study coordinator: BISWAS, INDRANIL
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.