Understanding how bacteria recycle sulfur and carbon from a key metabolic process
Salvage of the sulfur and carbon byproducts of S-adenosylmethionine metabolism in pathogenic bacteria
This study looks at how harmful bacteria use certain waste products from their food to grow and survive, especially when there's not much sulfur around, and it hopes to find new ways to stop these bacteria from causing diseases like cancer and liver problems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ohio State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Columbus, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11076703 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how pathogenic bacteria manage sulfur and carbon byproducts produced during the metabolism of S-adenosylmethionine (SAM). It focuses on the salvage pathways that allow these bacteria to utilize these byproducts, which are crucial for their growth and survival, especially in environments where sulfur is scarce. By exploring the genetic mechanisms behind these pathways, the research aims to uncover potential therapeutic targets that could disrupt the growth of harmful bacteria. Patients may benefit from insights gained into how these bacteria contribute to diseases, including cancer and liver conditions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals with infections caused by pathogenic bacteria or conditions influenced by bacterial metabolism.
Not a fit: Patients with non-bacterial infections or those not affected by the metabolic processes of pathogenic bacteria may not receive any benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that inhibit the growth of pathogenic bacteria, potentially improving outcomes for patients with related health issues.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific pathways being investigated are novel, previous research has shown success in targeting bacterial metabolism for therapeutic purposes.
Where this research is happening
Columbus, UNITED STATES
- Ohio State University — Columbus, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: North, Justin Andrew — Ohio State University
- Study coordinator: North, Justin Andrew
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.