Understanding how bacteria resist antimicrobial treatments

Structural Basis of Antimicrobial Peptide Sensing and Resistance

NIH-funded research Michigan State University · NIH-11097221

This study is looking at how harmful bacteria manage to survive against treatments that help fight infections, and it’s for anyone interested in understanding how we can develop better ways to tackle drug-resistant infections.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMichigan State University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (East Lansing, United States)
Project IDNIH-11097221 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the molecular mechanisms that allow pathogenic bacteria to resist antimicrobial peptides, which are crucial in treating infections. By focusing on specific membrane protein complexes, the research aims to uncover how these bacteria sense and respond to antimicrobial threats. The approach combines advanced techniques like cryo-electron microscopy with biochemical and computational methods to analyze the structure and function of these proteins. This knowledge could lead to new strategies for combating drug-resistant infections.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients suffering from infections caused by drug-resistant bacteria, particularly those involving Gram-positive organisms.

Not a fit: Patients with infections caused by non-bacterial pathogens or those not affected by antimicrobial resistance may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of more effective treatments against drug-resistant bacterial infections.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in understanding bacterial resistance mechanisms, making this approach both relevant and potentially impactful.

Where this research is happening

East Lansing, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.