Understanding how bacteria regulate gene expression through RNA modifications
Official title: Epitranscriptomic and post-transcriptional regulation of the RNome in gram negative and firmicute bacteria
Funded at Howard University · NIH-11160530 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how bacteria manage their genes after they’ve been copied, focusing on tiny changes in their RNA that can influence how they make proteins, which could help us understand bacterial behavior better and find new ways to treat infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Howard University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Washington, United States) |
| Project start | August 2, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $386,250 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM152163-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11160530 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Patients suffering from bacterial infections, particularly those caused by Clostridioides difficile, may benefit from the findings of this research.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-bacterial infections or those not affected by bacterial diseases may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which bacteria control gene expression after transcription, focusing on RNA modifications that affect how proteins are made. By studying various bacterial species, including gram-negative bacteria and firmicutes, the project aims to uncover the diversity of these regulatory processes. The researchers will employ a multi-omics approach, integrating different biological data types to fill existing knowledge gaps about RNA modifications and their impact on bacterial physiology. This work could lead to new insights into bacterial behavior and potentially inform treatment strategies for bacterial infections.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of bacterial infections and lead to improved therapeutic strategies.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific focus on epitranscriptomic regulation in bacteria is relatively novel, similar approaches in understanding gene regulation have shown promise in other contexts.
Where this research is happening
-
Howard University
Washington, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Thompson, Karl M — Howard University
- Study coordinator: Thompson, Karl M
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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.