Understanding how bacteria attach and cause eye infections
Official title: Mechanisms underlying adhesion and colonization in pneumococcal keratitis
Funded at University of Mississippi Med Ctr · NIH-10727764 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a common bacteria that causes eye infections sticks to the surface of the eye and changes to survive there, which could help us find better ways to prevent and treat these infections, especially when antibiotics don't work.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Mississippi Med Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Jackson, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $426,250 |
| NIH project number | 1R21EY035461-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10727764 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing symptoms of keratitis or those at risk for bacterial eye infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with keratitis caused by non-pneumococcal bacteria or those who do not have bacterial infections may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the bacteria Streptococcus pneumoniae, a leading cause of eye infections known as keratitis, attach to the cornea and adapt to its environment. The study focuses on the role of the bacterial capsule, a protective layer that may hinder attachment to the eye's surface. By examining how these bacteria change their capsule production when interacting with corneal cells, researchers aim to identify the genetic factors that facilitate their colonization. This could lead to new strategies for preventing and treating keratitis, especially in cases where antibiotics are ineffective.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for keratitis, potentially reducing vision loss caused by bacterial infections.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding bacterial behavior in other infections, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Mississippi Med Ctr
Jackson, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Marquart, Mary E — University of Mississippi Med Ctr
- Study coordinator: Marquart, Mary E
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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.