Understanding how a specific protein in streptococci helps bacteria use manganese
Official title: Characterization of a conserved streptococcal membrane protein affecting manganese utilization
Funded at Virginia Commonwealth University · NIH-11138269 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a specific protein in the bacteria Streptococcus sanguinis to see how it helps the bacteria take in manganese, which is important for their survival and ability to fight off stress, and the findings could help us understand more about how these bacteria behave and their weaknesses.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Virginia Commonwealth University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Richmond, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2025 |
| Project end | March 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $273,009 |
| NIH project number | 1R21DE034103-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11138269 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with infections caused by streptococcal bacteria, particularly those who may benefit from novel therapeutic approaches.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with infections caused by non-streptococcal bacteria or those not affected by manganese-related mechanisms may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of a conserved membrane protein in the manganese uptake process of the bacteria Streptococcus sanguinis. Manganese is crucial for the bacteria's ability to tolerate oxygen and resist oxidative stress, which are important for their survival and virulence. The study will involve genetic analysis and structural characterization of the protein to uncover its function and how it affects manganese transport. By understanding these mechanisms, the research aims to provide insights into bacterial behavior and potential vulnerabilities.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for targeting bacterial infections by disrupting manganese utilization.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of this research is novel, similar studies have shown success in understanding bacterial transport mechanisms and their implications for treatment.
Where this research is happening
-
Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kitten, Todd O. — Virginia Commonwealth University
- Study coordinator: Kitten, Todd O.
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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.