Understanding how Staphylococcus aureus uses sulfur from the body during infections

Elucidating strategies of Staphylococcus aureus nutrient sulfur acquisition during infection

['FUNDING_R01'] · MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY · NIH-10758187

This study is looking at how the bacteria that causes serious infections, Staphylococcus aureus, gets sulfur from our bodies to survive, with the hope of finding new ways to treat infections, especially those that are hard to treat with antibiotics.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorMICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (EAST LANSING, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10758187 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus, which causes serious infections, acquires sulfur from the human body to thrive during infections. The study focuses on understanding the mechanisms by which this bacteria utilizes sulfur-containing molecules like glutathione and cysteine, which are abundant in host tissues. By identifying the transporters and pathways involved in sulfur acquisition, the research aims to uncover new therapeutic strategies to combat antibiotic-resistant strains of this pathogen. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to the development of novel treatments for infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus, particularly those with antibiotic-resistant strains.

Not a fit: Patients with infections caused by other types of bacteria or those not infected may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment options for patients suffering from infections caused by antibiotic-resistant Staphylococcus aureus.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific mechanisms of sulfur acquisition by Staphylococcus aureus are not well-studied, research on nutrient acquisition by pathogens has shown promise in developing new therapeutic strategies.

Where this research is happening

EAST LANSING, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.