Understanding how certain enzymes affect Staphylococcus aureus infections

Role of M3 peptidases in Staphylococcus aureus pathogenesis

['FUNDING_R21'] · GEORGETOWN UNIVERSITY · NIH-10876238

This study is looking at how certain enzymes in the Staphylococcus aureus bacteria affect its ability to make people sick, and it could help us find new ways to treat infections caused by this germ.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorGEORGETOWN UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (WASHINGTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10876238 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of specific enzymes, known as M3 peptidases, in the virulence of Staphylococcus aureus, a common bacterial pathogen. The study focuses on how these enzymes influence the bacteria's ability to cause disease by regulating a key signaling system. By examining mutant strains of the bacteria that lack these enzymes, researchers aim to uncover their impact on bacterial survival and infection in human blood. This work could lead to new insights into bacterial behavior and potential therapeutic targets.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are at risk of or currently suffering from infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus.

Not a fit: Patients with infections caused by other types of bacteria may not receive benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific role of M3 peptidases in Staphylococcus aureus is less studied, similar approaches have shown promise in understanding bacterial virulence in other pathogens.

Where this research is happening

WASHINGTON, 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 →

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.