Understanding how beneficial bacteria help the Hawaiian bobtail squid stay healthy

Molecular determinants of bacterial interactions and maintenance in the Vibrio fischeri-Euprymna scolopes symbiosis

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · PENNSYLVANIA STATE UNIVERSITY, THE · NIH-11021000

This study looks at how the friendly bacteria living in the Hawaiian bobtail squid help keep it healthy, exploring how they compete with each other and communicate, with the hope of finding new ways to boost health using good bacteria.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorPENNSYLVANIA STATE UNIVERSITY, THE (nih funded)
Locations1 site (UNIVERSITY PARK, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11021000 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the relationship between the Hawaiian bobtail squid and the beneficial bacteria Vibrio fischeri that live in its body. It aims to uncover how these bacteria help the squid maintain its health and fitness, focusing on factors like competition among bacteria, the role of sulfur metabolism, and the evolution of communication systems in these bacteria. By studying these interactions, the research seeks to provide insights that could lead to new ways of enhancing host health through beneficial bacterial manipulation.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals interested in the role of symbiotic bacteria in health and disease, particularly those with conditions related to bacterial imbalances.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have any interest in or relevance to bacterial symbiosis or those without conditions influenced by bacterial interactions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for enhancing health by utilizing beneficial bacteria in various organisms.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in understanding bacterial symbiosis in various organisms, indicating that this approach has potential for significant insights.

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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Disease, Disorder

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.