Understanding how Acinetobacter baumannii survives and spreads

Elucidating regulatory control of Acinetobacter baumannii persistence and spread

NIH-funded research University of Chicago · NIH-11042144

This study looks at how a germ called Acinetobacter baumannii, which can cause serious infections in hospitals, manages to survive tough conditions and spread, with the goal of finding better ways to treat and prevent these infections for patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Chicago NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chicago, United States)
Project IDNIH-11042144 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms that allow Acinetobacter baumannii, a significant cause of pneumonia and other infections in hospital settings, to persist and spread. The study focuses on how this pathogen survives harsh conditions, particularly desiccation, and how these survival strategies affect its ability to cause disease. By examining the genetic factors that contribute to its resilience, the research aims to uncover new targets for treatment and prevention. Patients may benefit from insights gained into how to better control and treat infections caused by this antibiotic-resistant bacterium.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients who are hospitalized and at risk of Acinetobacter baumannii infections, particularly those on ventilators or with compromised immune systems.

Not a fit: Patients who are not hospitalized or do not have risk factors for Acinetobacter baumannii infections may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing and treating infections caused by Acinetobacter baumannii, potentially saving lives.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in understanding bacterial persistence and resistance mechanisms, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Chicago, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.