Understanding how Staphylococcus aureus causes corneal infections

Virulence of Staphylococcus aureus Corneal Infections

NIH-funded research University of Rochester · NIH-11072086

This study is looking at how a common bacteria called Staphylococcus aureus causes eye infections that can harm your vision, with the goal of finding new ways to treat these infections and help patients see better.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Rochester NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Rochester, United States)
Project IDNIH-11072086 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the virulence factors of Staphylococcus aureus, a major cause of bacterial keratitis, which can lead to severe vision loss. By utilizing advanced genomics and bioinformatics, the study aims to identify the specific genetic determinants that contribute to the severity of these infections. The research focuses on the unique conditions of the ocular surface, which may influence how the bacteria cause damage. Patients may benefit from new therapeutic strategies developed based on the findings of this research.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals experiencing symptoms of bacterial keratitis or those at high risk for developing this condition.

Not a fit: Patients with non-bacterial causes of corneal infections or those who do not have any ocular infections may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for bacterial keratitis, potentially reducing the risk of blindness.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has successfully identified virulence factors in other bacterial infections, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights for keratitis as well.

Where this research is happening

Rochester, United States

Researchers

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 below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.