Understanding how different bacteria work together in infections
Decoding interspecies signaling networks and the biogeography of polymicrobial infections
This project helps us learn how different types of bacteria communicate and organize themselves in infections, especially in conditions like cystic fibrosis.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Trustees of Indiana University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Bloomington, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11132724 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Many infections in the human body involve several types of bacteria working together, which can make them very hard to treat, especially with antibiotics. This project aims to understand how these bacteria talk to each other and arrange themselves in infections, like the chronic lung infections seen in cystic fibrosis patients. Researchers will use advanced imaging to watch these bacterial communities in samples from CF patients and in animal models. By decoding their "language" and organization, we hope to find new ways to disrupt these stubborn infections.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is relevant for patients experiencing chronic, polymicrobial infections, especially those with cystic fibrosis.
Not a fit: Patients without polymicrobial infections or those whose infections respond well to current antibiotic therapies may not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new strategies for treating complex, antibiotic-resistant infections, particularly those affecting people with cystic fibrosis.
How similar studies have performed: While the concept of bacterial communication is known, this project's focus on visualizing and decoding interspecies signaling in complex infections using advanced imaging is a novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Bloomington, United States
- Trustees of Indiana University — Bloomington, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Limoli, Dominique — Trustees of Indiana University
- Study coordinator: Limoli, Dominique
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 below.