Understanding how lab conditions affect bacterial behavior
Interrogating laboratory-adapted strains of Bacillus subtilis to elucidate the selective pressures of laboratory conditions on multicellular bacterial behaviors
This study looks at how growing bacteria in a lab affects their behavior and genes, which could help us learn more about how they work and potentially lead to better treatments for infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Siena College NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Loudonville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10577916 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how laboratory environments influence the behavior and genetic makeup of the bacterium Bacillus subtilis over time. By examining strains that have adapted to laboratory conditions, the project aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms behind changes in behaviors such as biofilm formation and motility. The research involves characterizing these strains to understand their social interactions and the production of pigments, which are important for their survival and environmental impact. Patients may benefit indirectly from this research through advancements in understanding bacterial behavior that could inform treatments for bacterial infections.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for benefiting from this research include individuals with bacterial infections or those interested in microbiome health.
Not a fit: Patients with non-bacterial infections or conditions unrelated to bacterial behavior may not receive any benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for managing bacterial infections and understanding microbial communities in health and disease.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in understanding bacterial behavior in laboratory settings, but this specific investigation into Bacillus subtilis adaptations is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Loudonville, United States
- Siena College — Loudonville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mcloon, Anna Lenora — Siena College
- Study coordinator: Mcloon, Anna Lenora
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.