Understanding how bacteria display proteins on their surface
Official title: Biogenesis of the gram-negative bacterial cell envelope
Funded at University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston · NIH-11011506 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain bacteria, like E. coli, show special proteins on their surface that help them interact with our bodies, which could lead to better treatments and vaccines for infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | February 3, 2025 |
| Project end | December 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $390,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R35GM156651-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11011506 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals with infections caused by Gram-negative bacteria, particularly those resistant to current antibiotics.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with infections caused by Gram-positive bacteria or those not affected by antibiotic resistance may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which Gram-negative bacteria, such as E. coli, display surface-exposed lipoproteins that are crucial for their interaction with the host. The study aims to uncover how these proteins are targeted and exported to the bacterial cell surface, which is vital for their roles in immune evasion and nutrient acquisition. By utilizing interdisciplinary approaches, including computational modeling, the research seeks to develop predictive models for lipoprotein localization and identify potential vaccine targets. Patients may benefit from advancements in understanding antibiotic resistance and developing new treatments.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for combating antibiotic-resistant infections.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in understanding bacterial surface mechanisms, but this specific approach to lipoprotein biogenesis is novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Konovalova, Anna — University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
- Study coordinator: Konovalova, Anna
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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.