Understanding how bacteria communicate and cooperate

Bacterial quorum sensing

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON · NIH-11087399

This study looks at how certain bacteria, like Pseudomonas aeruginosa, talk to each other and work together, which could help us find new ways to fight infections and improve treatments for patients.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SEATTLE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11087399 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how bacteria, particularly Pseudomonas aeruginosa, communicate with each other through a process called quorum sensing. By studying the chemical signals that bacteria use to coordinate their activities, the research aims to uncover the biological principles behind their social interactions. The approach involves examining the molecular mechanisms of these signals and how they influence bacterial behavior, which could lead to new strategies for disrupting harmful bacterial communities. Patients may benefit from insights gained in developing new antibacterial therapies targeting these communication pathways.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from bacterial infections, particularly those caused by antibiotic-resistant strains.

Not a fit: Patients with viral infections or non-bacterial conditions are unlikely to benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments that effectively combat bacterial infections by disrupting their communication systems.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting bacterial communication systems, indicating that this approach could lead to significant advancements in antibacterial therapies.

Where this research is happening

SEATTLE, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.