Understanding how certain enzymes affect Staphylococcus aureus infections
Official title: Role of M3 peptidases in Staphylococcus aureus pathogenesis
Funded at Georgetown University · NIH-10876238 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Georgetown University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Washington, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $195,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI173882-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10876238 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are at risk of or currently suffering from infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with infections caused by other types of bacteria may not receive benefit from this research.
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.
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 gone: 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
-
Georgetown University
Washington, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Brinsmade, Shaun R — Georgetown University
- Study coordinator: Brinsmade, Shaun R
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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.