Understanding how viruses recognize and attach to host cells
Structural and functional determinants of decision-making in bacteriophage host recognition
This study is looking at how certain viruses that target bacteria find and attach to their bacterial hosts, which could help improve treatments for bacterial infections in the future.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Med Br Galveston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Galveston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10798641 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which bacteriophages, a type of virus that infects bacteria, identify and attach to their host cells. By using advanced techniques such as X-ray crystallography and cryo-electron microscopy, the study aims to explore the structural and functional components of the viruses involved in this process. The research focuses on the interactions between viral particles and bacterial cell surfaces, examining how these interactions lead to successful infection. Patients may benefit indirectly from this research through advancements in understanding viral behavior, which could inform treatments for bacterial infections.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for potential benefit from this research include individuals suffering from bacterial infections that may be targeted by bacteriophage therapy.
Not a fit: Patients with viral infections not related to bacteriophages or those with non-bacterial diseases may not receive any benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for combating bacterial infections by enhancing our understanding of viral mechanisms.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using bacteriophages for treating bacterial infections, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Galveston, United States
- University of Texas Med Br Galveston — Galveston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Leiman, Petr G — University of Texas Med Br Galveston
- Study coordinator: Leiman, Petr G
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.