Understanding how antimicrobial peptides interact with bacterial resistance systems

High-throughput characterization of antimicrobial peptide-PhoPQ interactions

NIH-funded research Rice University · NIH-11036254

This study is looking at how our body's natural defenses, called antimicrobial peptides, work against bacteria that can resist them, with the goal of finding new ways to create better treatments for bacterial infections.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionRice University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Houston, United States)
Project IDNIH-11036254 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how antimicrobial peptides, which are produced by the human immune system to combat bacterial infections, interact with specific bacterial pathways that enable pathogens to resist these peptides. By using a novel technology to rapidly characterize these interactions, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms that allow bacteria to survive immune attacks. The findings could lead to the development of new antimicrobial drugs that target these resistance pathways, potentially improving treatment options for bacterial infections.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from infections caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria, particularly those caused by Gram-negative Enterobacteriaceae.

Not a fit: Patients with infections caused by non-bacterial pathogens or those who do not have antibiotic-resistant infections may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the creation of new antimicrobial drugs that effectively combat resistant bacterial infections.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in targeting bacterial resistance mechanisms, suggesting that this approach could lead to significant advancements in antimicrobial therapies.

Where this research is happening

Houston, 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.