Understanding how certain viruses can deliver treatments to bacteria
Official title: Function and application of contractile injection systems and jumbophage RNA polymerases
Funded at University of Texas Med Br Galveston · NIH-11090168 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Med Br Galveston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Galveston, United States) |
| Project start | May 15, 2025 |
| Project end | February 28, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $440,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R35GM158090-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11090168 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would be individuals suffering from antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with viral infections or those not affected by bacterial infections may not receive any benefit from this research.
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.
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 gone: 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
-
University of Texas Med Br Galveston
Galveston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Leiman, Petr G — University of Texas Med Br Galveston
- Study coordinator: Leiman, Petr G
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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.