Understanding how bacteria adapt and evolve in different environments

Deciphering the processes of adaptation and exaptation driving the evolution of opportunism in bacteria

NIH-funded research North Carolina State University Raleigh · NIH-11057650

This study is looking at how bacteria change and adapt, which can help us understand why some bacteria are good for us while others can make us sick, especially in hospitals.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNorth Carolina State University Raleigh NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Raleigh, United States)
Project IDNIH-11057650 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the complex evolution of bacteria, focusing on how they adapt to various lifestyles, including being beneficial or harmful to humans. By integrating multiple approaches such as computer simulations, laboratory experiments, and studies in living organisms, the research aims to uncover the factors that drive bacterial evolution. This understanding is crucial for addressing the challenges posed by opportunistic bacteria, which can cause serious infections, especially in hospital settings.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are at risk of hospital-acquired infections, particularly those caused by opportunistic bacteria.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have any bacterial infections or are not at risk of such infections may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better strategies for preventing and treating infections caused by multidrug-resistant bacteria.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in understanding bacterial evolution through genomic studies, but this integrated approach is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Raleigh, 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.
Conditions bacteria infectionbacterial diseaseBacterial Infections
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.