Understanding how bacterial proteins are modified in Firmicutes

N-terminal acylation of Lipoproteins in Firmicutes

NIH-funded research Pennsylvania State University, the · NIH-10920463

This study looks at how certain bacteria change their surface proteins, which can help us understand how our immune system recognizes them and how these bacteria behave, especially when they cause infections.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionPennsylvania State University, the NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (University Park, United States)
Project IDNIH-10920463 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the structural modifications of lipoproteins in the Firmicutes phylum of bacteria, which are important for their role in bacterial physiology and immune system interactions. The study focuses on how these lipoproteins are anchored to the bacterial surface and how their acylation patterns can vary based on genetic and environmental factors. By analyzing these modifications, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms behind bacterial detection by the immune system and the implications for bacterial behavior and pathogenicity.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with infections caused by Firmicutes bacteria or those at risk of such infections.

Not a fit: Patients with infections caused by non-Firmicutes bacteria may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for targeting bacterial infections and enhancing immune responses.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific focus on Firmicutes lipoprotein modifications is novel, similar research on bacterial proteins has shown promising results in understanding immune responses.

Where this research is happening

University Park, 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.