Understanding how bacterial sugars affect biofilm formation and antibiotic resistance
Official title: Molecular determinants and functions of bacterial polysaccharide cellular localization
Funded at University of Washington · NIH-11072273 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain sugars made by bacteria help them stick together and resist antibiotics, which could help us find new ways to treat infections caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa, especially for people who are dealing with tough infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project start | February 25, 2025 |
| Project end | January 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $783,557 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AI183692-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11072273 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients with chronic infections, particularly those caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa, such as individuals with cystic fibrosis or other lung conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with infections caused by non-bacterial pathogens or those not affected by biofilm-forming bacteria may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the roles of specific bacterial sugars, known as exopolysaccharides, in the formation and maintenance of biofilms by the bacteria Pseudomonas aeruginosa. It aims to understand how these sugars interact with cells and contribute to antibiotic tolerance and immune evasion. The study will explore different forms of these sugars and how they are retained on bacterial surfaces, which could lead to new insights into bacterial behavior and treatment strategies. By examining the chemical modifications of these sugars, the research seeks to uncover mechanisms that could be targeted for therapeutic interventions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating infections caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding bacterial biofilms and their resistance mechanisms, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Washington
Seattle, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Parsek, Matthew R. — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Parsek, Matthew R.
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.