Understanding how soil microbes and plants interact to affect antibiotic growth
Official title: Biogeography of Microbial and Plant-Derived Redox-Active Small Molecules and Combinatorial Effects on Microbial Growth
Funded at Massachusetts Institute of Technology · NIH-11022091 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how tiny substances from plants and bacteria in the soil work together and affect the growth of microbes, which could help us find better ways to manage these tiny communities for our health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts Institute of Technology NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cambridge, United States) |
| Project start | April 11, 2025 |
| Project end | February 28, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $393,718 |
| NIH project number | 1R35GM157324-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11022091 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions that may benefit from improved antibiotic therapies or microbial management strategies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not affected by antibiotic resistance or do not have conditions related to microbial imbalances may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the interactions between microbial and plant-derived small molecules in soil and their effects on microbial growth. By analyzing the combinations of natural antibiotics produced by soil bacteria and the influence of plant metabolites, the study aims to uncover how these interactions shape microbial communities. The approach involves examining various soil environments to understand the biogeography of these small molecules and their impact on microbial resilience and function. This knowledge could lead to better management of microbial communities for human health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of antibiotic interactions and lead to improved strategies for managing microbial communities that are beneficial for human health.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in understanding microbial interactions and antibiotic effects, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Cambridge, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mcrose, Darcy — Massachusetts Institute of Technology
- Study coordinator: Mcrose, Darcy
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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.