Understanding how certain bacteria communicate in the human microbiome

Talking with Small Molecules: Corynebacteria in the Human Microbiome

NIH-funded research Princeton University · NIH-11038877

This study is looking at how certain bacteria on our skin and in our noses talk to each other using tiny chemical signals, which could help us understand how they affect our health and how we can better manage infections caused by them.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionPrinceton University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Princeton, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-11038877 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how corynebacteria, which are common residents of the skin and upper respiratory tract, communicate using small molecules. By analyzing the chemical signals they produce, the study aims to uncover how these bacteria compete with each other and interact with other microbes and human cells. The researchers will use advanced techniques to identify these chemical signals and understand their roles in health and disease. This could provide insights into how to manage infections caused by these bacteria.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with skin or respiratory conditions related to corynebacterial infections.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have any bacterial infections or related health issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing and treating infections caused by multidrug-resistant bacteria.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in understanding bacterial communication and its implications for health, making this approach both relevant and potentially impactful.

Where this research is happening

Princeton, 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.