Understanding how viruses infect harmful bacteria
Bacteriophage interactions with enteric pathogens
This study is looking at how certain viruses that target bacteria can find and attack harmful germs like Shigella, E. coli, and Salmonella, with the hope that understanding this process will help create better treatments for bacterial infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Michigan State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (East Lansing, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11057637 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how bacteriophages, which are viruses that infect bacteria, recognize and enter specific harmful bacteria like Shigella, E. coli, and Salmonella. By studying the structures and mechanisms involved in this process, the research aims to identify key proteins on the surface of these bacteria that facilitate infection. The approach combines genetics, biochemistry, and biophysics to uncover universal and specific features that govern phage entry. This knowledge could lead to the development of new therapies or enhancements to existing treatments for bacterial infections.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from infections caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
Not a fit: Patients with infections caused by non-enteric pathogens or those not affected by antibiotic resistance may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative therapies that effectively combat antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using bacteriophages as a treatment for bacterial infections, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
East Lansing, United States
- Michigan State University — East Lansing, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Parent, Kristin N — Michigan State University
- Study coordinator: Parent, Kristin N
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.