NIH-funded research R21 grant

Understanding how Salmonella resists sulfite toxicity

Official title: Mechanistic evaluation of resistance to sulfite toxicity in Salmonella

Funded at University of Wisconsin-Madison · NIH-10861092 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study looks at how the bacteria Salmonella can handle harmful substances called sulfites that it encounters during infections, focusing on a special protein that helps it survive, which could help us find better ways to fight foodborne illnesses caused by Salmonella.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Madison, United States)
Project startJune 6, 2023
Project endMay 31, 2026
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$194,750
NIH project number5R21AI178071-02
Project IDNIH-10861092 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced foodborne illnesses or are at risk of such infections.

Less likely to help

Patients who are not affected by bacterial infections or do not consume foods that may harbor Salmonella may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates how the bacteria Salmonella enterica can survive the toxic effects of sulfites, which are produced during bacterial infections. The study focuses on a specific protein, YeiE, that helps Salmonella manage sulfite levels, thereby aiding its survival and ability to cause disease. By examining the mechanisms of sulfite detoxification, the research aims to uncover new insights into bacterial behavior during infections. This could lead to a better understanding of how to combat foodborne illnesses caused by Salmonella.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing and treating bacterial infections, particularly those caused by Salmonella.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding bacterial resistance mechanisms can lead to significant advancements in treating infections, indicating potential success for this approach.

Where this research is happening

  • University of Wisconsin-Madison
    Madison, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Elfenbein, Johanna Rebecca — University of Wisconsin-Madison
  • Study coordinator: Elfenbein, Johanna Rebecca

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.