Understanding how bacteria attach proteins to their cell walls
Official title: Improved Understanding of Bacterial Sortase Activity Towards Next-Generation Protein Engineering
Funded at Western Washington University · NIH-10874337 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at special enzymes that help bacteria stick proteins to their surfaces, with the goal of improving how we create new treatments for infections, which could help patients dealing with antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Western Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Bellingham, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $382,912 |
| NIH project number | 1R15GM154315-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10874337 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from bacterial infections, especially those caused by antibiotic-resistant strains.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with viral infections or non-bacterial diseases may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the activity of sortase enzymes, which are crucial for attaching proteins to the cell walls of certain bacteria. By exploring different types of sortases, particularly those from Gram-positive bacteria, the project aims to enhance protein engineering techniques that could lead to new therapeutic applications. The research will involve detailed biochemical assays to understand how these enzymes work and how they can be manipulated for medical purposes. Patients may benefit from advancements in antibiotic development and treatments for diseases linked to bacterial infections.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new antibiotics and therapies for bacterial infections, particularly those that are resistant to current treatments.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in utilizing sortase enzymes for protein engineering, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
Western Washington University
Bellingham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Amacher, Jeanine Faye — Western Washington University
- Study coordinator: Amacher, Jeanine Faye
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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.