Understanding how certain viruses can bypass bacterial defenses

Investigating the mechanisms that make jumbophages impervious to bacterial immune systems

NIH-funded research University of California, San Francisco · NIH-10868660

This study is looking at how certain viruses that attack bacteria, called jumbophages, can outsmart bacterial defenses, with the goal of finding new ways to treat infections caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Francisco NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Francisco, United States)
Project IDNIH-10868660 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how specific viruses that infect bacteria, known as bacteriophages, can evade the immune systems of bacteria. By studying a particular type of phage called jumbophage, which has shown the ability to overcome various bacterial defenses, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms that allow these phages to replicate successfully. The approach involves screening different phages to identify those that can effectively target antibiotic-resistant bacteria, which are a significant concern in modern medicine. The findings could lead to advancements in phage therapy, providing new treatment options for infections that are resistant to conventional antibiotics.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from infections caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

Not a fit: Patients with infections that are not caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative therapies for treating antibiotic-resistant infections using bacteriophages.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using bacteriophages as alternatives to antibiotics, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

San Francisco, 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.