Understanding how Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria communicate and cooperate
Official title: Pseudomonas aeruginosa sociomicrobiology
Funded at University of Washington · NIH-11005315 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how a germ called Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which can make people sick, especially those with weaker immune systems, communicates and works together with other germs to survive, hoping to find new ways to treat infections caused by it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $349,875 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM152107-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11005315 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with compromised immune systems who are at risk for infections caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with bacterial infections caused by other pathogens unrelated to Pseudomonas aeruginosa may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the social interactions of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a bacterium that can cause infections in humans, particularly in those with weakened immune systems. The study focuses on how these bacteria use a communication system called quorum sensing to coordinate their behaviors and gene expression in response to their environment. By examining how these bacteria interact with each other and with other microbial species, the research aims to uncover the genetic basis for their cooperative behaviors and how these interactions influence their survival and function. This could lead to new insights into bacterial infections and potential treatment strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment of bacterial infections, particularly in immunocompromised patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding bacterial communication and behavior, making this approach promising for further advancements.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Washington
Seattle, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Dandekar, Ajai — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Dandekar, Ajai
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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.