Understanding how Burkholderia bacteria attach to human cells
Official title: A novel attachment mechanism for Burkholderia cepacia complex
Funded at University of Hawaii at Manoa · NIH-10788470 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain bacteria stick to human cells, which helps them cause infections, and by understanding this process, we hope to find new ways to stop these bacteria from attaching and making people sick.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Hawaii at Manoa NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Honolulu, United States) |
| Project start | February 15, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $181,875 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI176362-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10788470 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with cystic fibrosis or those who are immunocompromised and at risk for Burkholderia infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have cystic fibrosis or are not immunocompromised may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which Burkholderia cepacia complex bacteria attach to human cells, which is crucial for their ability to cause disease. By studying a novel surface attachment protein, the research aims to uncover new strategies to prevent these bacteria from adhering to host cells, potentially halting disease progression. The approach involves detailed analysis of bacterial behavior and interactions with human cells, which could lead to innovative treatment options for infections caused by these pathogens.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that prevent severe lung infections in patients with cystic fibrosis and other immunocompromised individuals.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in understanding bacterial attachment mechanisms, but this specific approach is novel and untested.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Hawaii at Manoa
Honolulu, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hoang, Tung T — University of Hawaii at Manoa
- Study coordinator: Hoang, Tung T
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.