Understanding how RNA interacts with a bacterial protein to regulate gene expression
Official title: Modeling Hfq-RNA Dynamics on an Atomistic Scale
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-10998682 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a special protein in bacteria helps tiny RNA molecules connect with their messages, which could help us understand how bacteria react to stress and cause infections, ultimately leading to new ways to fight bacterial illnesses.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | January 17, 2025 |
| Project end | February 16, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $48,974 |
| NIH project number | 1F31AI186509-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10998682 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with bacterial infections or those at risk of developing antibiotic-resistant infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with viral infections or non-infectious diseases are unlikely to benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the Hfq chaperone protein in bacteria, which helps small regulatory RNAs bind to their target messenger RNAs. By using advanced techniques like single molecule Förster resonance energy transfer and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, the project aims to create a detailed model of how RNA binds and moves on the Hfq protein. This understanding could lead to insights into bacterial responses to stress and virulence, which are crucial for developing new antimicrobial strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new ways to combat bacterial infections by targeting the mechanisms of gene regulation.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding RNA-protein interactions, making this approach a continuation of established scientific inquiry.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: White, Elise — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: White, Elise
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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.