Understanding how bacteria defend against viruses using the BREX system
Official title: Characterization of the Bacterial BREX Phage Restriction System
Funded at Seattle University · NIH-10291285 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain bacteria defend themselves against viruses, focusing on a special system they use to tell their own DNA apart from that of the viruses, which could help us find new ways to use this knowledge in science and technology.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Seattle University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project start | September 15, 2021 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2021 |
| Award (this year) | $284,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R15GM140375-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10291285 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions related to bacterial infections or those interested in the mechanisms of microbial resistance.
✕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 a bacterial defense mechanism known as the BREX system, which helps bacteria protect themselves from viral infections. By examining the genes and proteins involved in this system, researchers aim to uncover how bacteria can distinguish between their own DNA and that of invading viruses. The study employs advanced techniques, including cryo-electron microscopy, to visualize the components of the BREX system and understand their functions. This knowledge could lead to new insights into bacterial resistance and potential applications in biotechnology.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of bacterial defenses, potentially leading to novel strategies for preventing bacterial infections.
How similar studies have gone: While the BREX system is relatively uncharacterized, similar bacterial defense mechanisms have shown promise in previous studies, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
Seattle University
Seattle, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kaiser, Brett Kian — Seattle University
- Study coordinator: Kaiser, Brett Kian
Related research
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Understanding how bacteria defend against viruses
This study is looking at how a special system in bacteria helps them fight off viruses, and by understanding how this system works, we hope to find new ways to use this knowledge in science and medicine.
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.