Understanding how Staphylococcus aureus bacteria adapt their metabolism to cause infections
The molecular mechanism linking respiratory NADH oxidation and virulence in Staphylococcus aureus
This study is looking at how the Staphylococcus aureus bacteria change their behavior to become better at causing infections, and it aims to find new ways to treat these tough infections by understanding how the bacteria respond to their surroundings.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Champaign, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10823229 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which Staphylococcus aureus, a common and dangerous bacterium, alters its metabolism to enhance its ability to infect humans. The team will explore how the bacterium senses environmental signals, such as oxygen levels and nutrients, and how these signals influence its energy production and virulence factors. By studying specific enzymes involved in the bacterium's respiratory processes, the researchers aim to uncover critical pathways that could be targeted for new treatments. This work is essential for developing effective therapies against infections caused by this multidrug-resistant organism.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are at risk of or currently suffering from Staphylococcus aureus infections, particularly those with multidrug-resistant strains.
Not a fit: Patients with infections caused by other types of bacteria or those who do not have Staphylococcus aureus infections may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of new therapeutic strategies to combat Staphylococcus aureus infections, potentially reducing morbidity and mortality associated with these infections.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in targeting metabolic pathways in bacteria to develop new treatments, indicating that this approach may yield promising results.
Where this research is happening
Champaign, United States
- University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign — Champaign, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gennis, Robert B — University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
- Study coordinator: Gennis, Robert B
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 below.