Understanding how microbes form communities on surfaces
Official title: Genetic regulation of inter- and intra-species microbial community formation
Funded at University of California, Merced · NIH-11001421 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how groups of germs, called biofilms, form on things like medical devices and body tissues, and it aims to find ways to help prevent or treat infections caused by these germs, which could be really helpful for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, Merced NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Merced, United States) |
| Project start | May 5, 2025 |
| Project end | March 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $550,108 |
| NIH project number | 1R35GM156045-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11001421 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with medical devices such as catheters, pacemakers, or prosthetic joints, as they are at risk for biofilm-related infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without implanted medical devices or those not affected by biofilm-related infections may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the formation of microbial communities known as biofilms, which develop on various surfaces, including medical devices and human tissues. By examining the genetic regulation and transcriptional networks involved in biofilm development, the study aims to uncover how these communities are built and maintained. The research employs systems biology approaches to analyze both single-species and multi-species biofilms, focusing on their behavior and evolution. Patients may benefit from insights gained into preventing or treating infections associated with biofilms.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing and treating infections caused by biofilms on medical devices and in the human body.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding biofilm formation and its implications for health, indicating that this approach is built on established scientific foundations.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, Merced
Merced, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Nobile, Clarissa Jane — University of California, Merced
- Study coordinator: Nobile, Clarissa Jane
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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.