Understanding how bacteria interact through natural products
Official title: Molecular analysis of bacterial interactions
Funded at Georgia Institute of Technology · NIH-11072108 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how tiny germs in our bodies and in the ocean work together and how certain natural substances can change their behavior, which could help us find new antibiotics and learn more about why some germs resist treatment.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Georgia Institute of Technology NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $373,752 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM150870-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11072108 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals affected by antibiotic-resistant infections or those interested in the ecological impacts of microbial interactions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have any bacterial infections or are not affected by antibiotic resistance may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the interactions between microorganisms in natural communities, focusing on how these interactions are influenced by small molecules known as natural products. By studying mucus-dwelling bacteria from human airways and marine corals, the research aims to uncover the conditions that activate the production of these natural products. The team will use advanced mass spectrometry techniques to analyze how these interactions occur in environments that mimic human conditions, potentially leading to the discovery of new antibiotics and understanding antibiotic resistance.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of new antibiotics and strategies to combat antibiotic resistance.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in understanding microbial interactions and natural product biosynthesis, suggesting that this approach could yield significant insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Georgia Institute of Technology
Atlanta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Garg, Neha — Georgia Institute of Technology
- Study coordinator: Garg, Neha
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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.