Understanding how bacteria form structured communities called biofilms
Probing the role of sensory cues in the regulation of bacterial biofilm development
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO · NIH-10910003
This study is looking at how bacteria detect changes in their surroundings, like light and food, to decide when to group together and form biofilms, which can cause infections; understanding this process could help us find better ways to treat these infections.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (CHICAGO, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10910003 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how bacteria sense and respond to various environmental cues to form biofilms, which are complex communities of bacteria. By studying the molecular mechanisms behind this decision-making process, the research aims to uncover how factors like light, nutrient availability, and population density influence biofilm development. The approach involves advanced techniques such as fluorescence microscopy to visualize and analyze these interactions in real-time. This knowledge could lead to better strategies for managing bacterial infections and biofilm-related issues.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with infections caused by multi-drug resistant bacteria, such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
Not a fit: Patients with non-bacterial infections or those not affected by biofilm-related complications may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for infections caused by biofilm-forming bacteria, particularly those that are resistant to antibiotics.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in understanding bacterial behavior and biofilm formation, indicating that this approach is built on established scientific principles.
Where this research is happening
CHICAGO, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO — CHICAGO, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: MUKHERJEE, SAMPRITI — UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO
- Study coordinator: MUKHERJEE, SAMPRITI
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.