Understanding how bacteria form protective communities on surfaces
Surface sensing, memory, and motility control in biofilm formation
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LOS ANGELES · NIH-10546429
This study is looking at how groups of bacteria stick to surfaces and become resistant to antibiotics, which could help us find better ways to stop harmful bacteria from growing in hospitals and other places where people get treated.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LOS ANGELES (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (LOS ANGELES, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10546429 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how biofilms, which are clusters of bacteria that adhere to surfaces, form and develop resistance to antibiotics. By studying the signaling pathways and memory mechanisms that bacteria use to detect surfaces, the research aims to uncover how these communities grow and thrive. The approach includes tracking bacterial behavior at both the population and single-cell levels, focusing on the role of a molecule called cAMP in this process. This knowledge could lead to new strategies for preventing or disrupting harmful biofilm formations in clinical settings.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with cystic fibrosis or other respiratory diseases that are affected by biofilm-related infections.
Not a fit: Patients without respiratory diseases or those not affected by biofilm infections may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for infections caused by antibiotic-resistant biofilms, particularly in patients with cystic fibrosis.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding biofilm formation and its implications for treating infections, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
LOS ANGELES, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LOS ANGELES — LOS ANGELES, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: WONG, GERARD C — UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LOS ANGELES
- Study coordinator: WONG, GERARD C
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 below.