Understanding how bacteria survive stress and resist antibiotics

The critical roles of (p)ppGpp in homeostasis and antibiotic tolerance in Gram positive bacteria

NIH-funded research University of Wisconsin-Madison · NIH-11035175

This study looks at how certain bacteria, like those that can cause infections, react to tough situations like not having enough food or being exposed to antibiotics, and it focuses on a special molecule that helps them survive; the goal is to find new ways to treat infections that are hard to beat with current medicines.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Madison, United States)
Project IDNIH-11035175 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how certain bacteria, particularly Gram-positive types like Bacillus anthracis and Bacillus subtilis, respond to various stresses such as nutrient shortages and antibiotic exposure. The focus is on a signaling molecule called (p)ppGpp, which helps bacteria adapt and survive under these challenging conditions. By studying how (p)ppGpp influences bacterial behavior and resistance, the research aims to uncover new mechanisms that could lead to better treatments for antibiotic-resistant infections. Patients may benefit from insights gained into how to combat these resilient bacteria effectively.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from infections caused by antibiotic-resistant Gram-positive bacteria.

Not a fit: Patients with infections caused by Gram-negative bacteria or those not affected by antibiotic resistance may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding bacterial stress responses, making this approach a continuation of established scientific inquiry.

Where this research is happening

Madison, 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.