Understanding how bacteria hide inside cells to fight infections
Deciphering the role of peroxisomes in bacterial pathogenesis
This research explores how certain bacteria grow inside our cells, aiming to find new ways to treat infections, especially those resistant to current antibiotics.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11131212 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Infectious diseases are a big concern, especially with the rise of antibiotic-resistant germs. A major challenge is that many harmful bacteria hide and multiply inside our own cells, making them hard for medicines to reach. This project looks at how these bacteria create a special 'shelter' inside cells, called a replication vacuole, to protect themselves. We recently found that tiny parts of our cells called peroxisomes play a surprising role in helping these bacteria survive. By understanding how peroxisomes support bacterial growth, we hope to discover new targets for developing effective treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is for future patients suffering from serious bacterial infections, particularly those caused by antibiotic-resistant pathogens.
Not a fit: Patients without bacterial infections or those whose infections are easily treated with existing antibiotics may not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to the development of entirely new drugs that can overcome antibiotic resistance by targeting how bacteria survive within our cells.
How similar studies have performed: This project builds on a recent, unprecedented discovery linking host cell peroxisomes to bacterial survival, suggesting a novel approach to fighting infections.
Where this research is happening
Baltimore, United States
- Johns Hopkins University — Baltimore, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: O'connor, Tamara — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: O'connor, Tamara
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.