Understanding how bacteria use metals for growth and metabolism
Connecting the bacterial metallome to cellular metabolism at single cell resolution
This study is looking at how harmful bacteria fight with our bodies for important metals they need to grow, and it uses special imaging tools to see how these bacteria use those metals, which could help us find new ways to treat infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11101345 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how pathogenic bacteria compete with their hosts for essential metals, which are crucial for their growth and metabolism. By using advanced imaging techniques, the study aims to analyze the metal content and metabolic strategies of individual bacterial cells. This approach will help uncover the relationship between metal acquisition and bacterial metabolism, potentially leading to new therapeutic strategies against bacterial infections.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from bacterial infections or conditions related to bacterial metabolism.
Not a fit: Patients with viral infections or non-bacterial related health issues may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of novel treatments that target bacterial metabolism and metal acquisition, improving patient outcomes in bacterial infections.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of correlating metal content with metabolism at the single-cell level is novel, related research has shown promise in understanding bacterial behavior and developing targeted therapies.
Where this research is happening
Saint Louis, United States
- Washington University — Saint Louis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bradley, Alexander S — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Bradley, Alexander S
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.