Understanding how certain viruses can deliver treatments to bacteria

Function and application of contractile injection systems and jumbophage RNA polymerases

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS MED BR GALVESTON · NIH-11090168

This study is looking at how certain viruses can deliver their materials into bacteria, which could help us create better treatments for infections, and it also explores how these viruses make RNA, potentially leading to new therapies for patients.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF TEXAS MED BR GALVESTON (nih funded)
Locations1 site (GALVESTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11090168 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how contractile injection systems, which are used by certain viruses, can penetrate bacterial cells. It aims to develop a detailed understanding of these processes to create targeted treatments for harmful bacteria. Additionally, the study explores the RNA synthesis mechanisms of large viruses, which could enhance the development of RNA-based therapies. Patients may benefit from advancements in antimicrobial treatments derived from this research.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would be individuals suffering from antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections.

Not a fit: Patients with viral infections or those not affected by bacterial infections may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new and effective treatments for bacterial infections that are resistant to current antibiotics.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using similar viral mechanisms to combat bacterial infections, indicating a potential for success in this approach.

Where this research is happening

GALVESTON, 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.