Understanding how individual bacteria behave in biofilms

Tracking single-cell gene expression heterogeneity and its consequences in bacterial biofilms

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · YALE UNIVERSITY · NIH-11014624

This study is looking at how individual bacteria in clusters, called biofilms, behave and communicate with each other, which could help us find better ways to treat stubborn infections caused by these bacteria.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorYALE UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (NEW HAVEN, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11014624 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the behavior of individual bacterial cells within biofilms, which are clusters of bacteria that can cause persistent infections. By using advanced imaging techniques, the study aims to observe how gene expression varies from one cell to another and how this affects the overall structure and function of the biofilm. The researchers will employ deep learning algorithms to analyze the data collected, providing insights into the complex interactions between gene expression and cell behavior. This knowledge could help in developing more effective treatments for infections caused by biofilms.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from chronic infections caused by biofilm-forming bacteria.

Not a fit: Patients with acute infections not related to biofilms may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for treating chronic infections associated with bacterial biofilms.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in understanding bacterial behavior in biofilms, but this approach using single-cell analysis and deep learning is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

NEW HAVEN, 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.