Understanding how bacteria in the human aerodigestive tract produce antibiotics in response to pathogens
Characterizing Pathogen-Mediated Production of Secondary Metabolites in the Human Aerodigestive Tract Microbiome
This study is looking at how friendly bacteria in our throat and digestive system can help fight off harmful germs by producing helpful substances, like antibiotics, which could lead to safer treatments for infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Oklahoma State University Stillwater NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stillwater, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11014477 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the interactions between commensal bacteria and pathogens in the human aerodigestive tract, focusing on how these interactions influence the production of secondary metabolites, including antibiotics. By co-culturing specific bacteria with pathogens, the researchers aim to understand how these bacteria adapt and produce compounds that could be beneficial for treating infections. The study will involve isolating and characterizing these bioactive compounds to identify potential new therapeutics that are safe for the microbiome. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to safer antibiotic treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with infections that may be treated with antibiotics, particularly those who have experienced issues with antibiotic resistance.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have infections or those who are not affected by antibiotic treatments may not receive any benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of new antibiotics that are effective against pathogens without disrupting the beneficial bacteria in the microbiome.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in understanding the microbiome's role in antibiotic production, suggesting that this approach could yield significant findings.
Where this research is happening
Stillwater, United States
- Oklahoma State University Stillwater — Stillwater, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Stubbendieck, Reed M — Oklahoma State University Stillwater
- Study coordinator: Stubbendieck, Reed M
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.