Understanding how riboswitches regulate bacterial gene expression
Official title: Riboswitches and their application to RNA visualization and transcription factor interactions with the transcriptome
Funded at University of Colorado · NIH-11045007 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at special RNA pieces called riboswitches that help bacteria control their genes by responding to tiny molecules, and it's aimed at finding new ways to create medicines that can fight harmful bacteria.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boulder, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | March 1, 2024 |
| Project end | February 28, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $597,408 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM152029-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11045007 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with bacterial infections that are resistant to current treatments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with viral infections or non-infectious conditions are unlikely to benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates riboswitches, which are RNA elements that control bacterial gene expression by binding to specific metabolites. By exploring how these riboswitches interact with small molecules, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms behind gene regulation in bacteria, particularly those that are important for survival and virulence. The project employs a variety of techniques, including structural and biochemical methods, to analyze these interactions and their implications for developing new antimicrobial therapies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of novel antimicrobial treatments targeting bacterial infections.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting riboswitches for antimicrobial development, indicating a potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Colorado
Boulder, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Batey, Robert T — University of Colorado
- Study coordinator: Batey, Robert T
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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.