Understanding how bacteria defend against viruses
Official title: Activation of the anti-phage defense DarTG by infected E. coli
Funded at Washington University · NIH-10997202 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how E. coli bacteria fight off viruses that can infect them, focusing on a special system that helps them block the virus's ability to multiply, and it aims to understand how this system works to keep the bacteria safe.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $76,756 |
| NIH project number | 1F32AI186521-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10997202 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with infections caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria, particularly those involving E. coli.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with viral infections that do not involve bacterial co-infections may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which bacteria, specifically E. coli, activate their defenses against viral infections caused by bacteriophages. It focuses on a specific toxin-antitoxin system called DarTG, which helps bacteria block the replication of viral DNA. The study aims to uncover how the antitoxin component of this system senses viral infection and regulates the toxin's activity to protect the bacteria. By using advanced techniques like ChIP sequencing, the researchers will analyze the interactions between the bacterial components and the viral elements.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for enhancing bacterial resistance to viral infections, which may have implications for treating bacterial diseases.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific mechanisms of the DarTG system are being explored, similar toxin-antitoxin systems have shown promise in previous studies, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gibbs, Kyle Dane — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Gibbs, Kyle Dane
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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.