Understanding how Staphylococcus aureus secretes proteins that help it cause infections

Staphylococcus aureus Type 7b Secretion System assembly and regulation

NIH-funded research University of South Florida · NIH-11032894

This study is looking at how a specific system in the Staphylococcus aureus bacteria helps it cause infections, with the goal of finding new ways to fight these infections in people.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of South Florida NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Tampa, United States)
Project IDNIH-11032894 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the type 7b secretion system (T7bSS) of Staphylococcus aureus, a common bacterium responsible for serious infections. The project aims to uncover how this system assembles and functions to transport proteins that contribute to the bacterium's ability to infect and persist in human tissues. By using advanced techniques like cryo-electron microscopy and mass spectrometry, the research will explore the structural components and regulatory mechanisms involved in T7bSS. This knowledge could lead to new strategies for combating infections caused by this pathogen.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus, particularly those with severe or recurrent cases.

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 new treatments or preventive measures against infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in understanding bacterial secretion systems, indicating that this approach has potential for impactful findings.

Where this research is happening

Tampa, 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 2026-06-13 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.