Understanding how bacteria form structured communities called biofilms
Official title: Probing the role of sensory cues in the regulation of bacterial biofilm development
Funded at University of Chicago · NIH-11035927 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how bacteria react to their surroundings, like light and food, to form groups called biofilms, and it aims to find ways to better manage infections caused by these bacteria.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $230,247 |
| NIH project number | 3R35GM150803-02S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11035927 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from infections caused by biofilm-forming bacteria, such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with infections caused by non-biofilm forming bacteria may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how bacteria sense and respond to various environmental cues to form complex communities known as biofilms. By studying the molecular mechanisms behind this process, the research aims to uncover how different signals, such as light and nutrient availability, influence biofilm development. The approach involves using advanced techniques to analyze bacterial behavior and interactions in three-dimensional environments. This knowledge could lead to better strategies for managing bacterial infections and biofilm-related issues.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for bacterial infections, particularly those caused by multi-drug resistant strains.
How similar studies have gone: Previous 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
-
University of Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mukherjee, Sampriti — University of Chicago
- Study coordinator: Mukherjee, Sampriti
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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.