Understanding how bacteria adapt to new hosts
Official title: Identifying limitations on microbial host jumps
Funded at University of Utah · NIH-11087714 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at why certain bacteria, like Pseudomonas, struggle to adapt when they move to new hosts, which can help us understand how infections might spread between different species, and it’s aimed at anyone interested in how germs evolve and affect our health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Utah NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Salt Lake City, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $385,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM150722-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11087714 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are at risk of infections from bacteria that may jump between species, particularly those with compromised immune systems.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not at risk of bacterial infections or those with stable health conditions may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the factors that limit bacteria from adapting to new host environments, which is crucial for predicting when pathogens might jump from one species to another. By focusing on the genetic mechanisms of bacteria, particularly the Pseudomonas genus, the research employs comparative and functional genomics to analyze how these microbes evolve and interact with different hosts. The study aims to uncover the roles of host genetics and surrounding microbial communities in influencing pathogen adaptation, providing insights that could help in managing infectious diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better predictions and strategies for preventing the spread of infectious diseases caused by bacterial pathogens.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding bacterial adaptation mechanisms, but this specific approach focusing on host jumps is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Utah
Salt Lake City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Karasov, Talia — University of Utah
- Study coordinator: Karasov, Talia
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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.