Understanding how a protein helps bacteria resist copper toxicity
Official title: Structure and Function of DcrB, an Enterobacterial Copper Resistance Protein
Funded at University of Wisconsin la Crosse · NIH-10793134 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a protein called DcrB that helps some bacteria survive in high copper levels, which can be harmful, and by understanding how it works, researchers hope to find new ways to tackle infections caused by these tough bacteria.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Wisconsin la Crosse NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Crosse, United States) |
| Project start | February 15, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $401,680 |
| NIH project number | 1R15GM152892-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10793134 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are at risk of infections caused by pathogenic bacteria, particularly those in healthcare settings.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with infections caused by non-copper-resistant bacteria may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a specific protein called DcrB, which helps certain bacteria survive high levels of copper, a metal that can be toxic to cells. By studying the structure and function of DcrB, researchers aim to uncover how this protein enables bacteria to resist the harmful effects of copper, which is used in healthcare settings to reduce infections. The research involves detailed experiments to analyze the protein's structure and its role in bacterial resistance, potentially leading to new insights into managing infections caused by resistant bacteria.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for combating healthcare-associated infections caused by copper-resistant bacteria.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in understanding bacterial resistance mechanisms, making this approach promising but still focused on a specific protein.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Wisconsin la Crosse
La Crosse, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: May, John — University of Wisconsin la Crosse
- Study coordinator: May, John
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.