Understanding how nutrients affect stubborn bacterial infections
Nutrient-driven bacterial physiology in recalcitrant infections.
This project explores how the food available to bacteria in our bodies helps them resist antibiotics, especially in long-lasting infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Oregon NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Eugene, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11137788 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project looks into why some chronic infections are so hard to treat with current antibiotics. We know that bacteria in these infections often grow slowly and form protective layers called biofilms, which makes them resistant to medicines and our body's defenses. Our goal is to understand how the nutrients available in the body influence these bacteria to become so stubborn. By learning more about how bacteria like gram-positive anaerobic cocci (GPAC) use nutrients to survive and resist treatment, we hope to find new ways to fight these difficult infections.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is not directly recruiting patients but aims to benefit those suffering from chronic bacterial infections that are difficult to treat with current antibiotics.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate new treatments or direct clinical intervention would not benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new strategies for overcoming antibiotic resistance and developing more effective treatments for chronic bacterial infections.
How similar studies have performed: Preliminary studies have identified nutrient availability as a key regulator of slow growth and biofilm lifestyles, suggesting a promising direction for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Eugene, United States
- University of Oregon — Eugene, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Spero, Melanie a. — University of Oregon
- Study coordinator: Spero, Melanie a.
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.