Understanding how Pseudomonas bacteria cause bladder infections, especially in older adults.
Official title: Pseudomonas pathogenesis in the bladder
Funded at Vanderbilt University Medical Center · NIH-11123471 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a common germ that causes urinary tract infections (UTIs) behaves in the bladder, especially in older adults, to help find better ways to treat these infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, United States) |
| Project start | June 21, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $212,672 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI186087-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11123471 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults who are at risk for urinary tract infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not elderly or do not have a history of urinary tract infections may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a common cause of urinary tract infections (UTIs), establishes infections in the bladder. The study focuses on how age may affect the ability of this pathogen to infect and persist in the urinary tract. By analyzing genetic differences in various strains of Pseudomonas, the researchers aim to identify specific features that contribute to its pathogenicity in older individuals. This work could lead to better understanding and treatment options for UTIs, particularly in the aging population.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prevention and treatment strategies for urinary tract infections in older adults.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding other aspects of Pseudomonas infections, but this specific focus on bladder infections in older adults is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Vanderbilt University Medical Center
Nashville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hadjifrangiskou, Maria — Vanderbilt University Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Hadjifrangiskou, Maria
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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.