Understanding how bacteria respond to stress signals
Official title: MECHANISMS AND MACROMOLECULAR INTERACTIONS UNDERLYING CELLULAR RESPONSES TO STRESS SIGNALS
Funded at Rutgers, the State Univ of N.j. · NIH-11303125 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how bacteria handle stress that can harm their DNA, focusing on how certain proteins help them repair and replicate their DNA when things get tough, which could be helpful for understanding how bacteria survive in challenging situations.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rutgers, the State Univ of N.j. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Piscataway, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2025 |
| Project end | March 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $392,500 |
| NIH project number | 7R35GM144124-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11303125 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from infections caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-bacterial infections or those not affected by antibiotic resistance may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which bacteria manage stress signals that affect their DNA processes, such as repair and replication. It focuses on how proteins involved in these processes are regulated and coordinated to ensure proper cellular function under adverse conditions. The study will explore two main areas: the general stress response mediated by a specific protein called RpoS and the responses to DNA damage through specialized repair pathways. By examining these regulatory mechanisms, the research aims to uncover how bacteria adapt to challenging environments.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for combating antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding bacterial stress responses, indicating that this approach has potential for meaningful advancements.
Where this research is happening
-
Rutgers, the State Univ of N.j.
Piscataway, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Deaconescu, Alexandra M. — Rutgers, the State Univ of N.j.
- Study coordinator: Deaconescu, Alexandra 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.