Understanding the functions of unknown genes in certain bacteria
Official title: Functional genomics of hypothetical genes in Gram-positive bacteria
Funded at University of Minnesota · NIH-10880627 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at certain unknown genes in bacteria that can resist antibiotics to understand how they help bacteria survive and cause infections, which could eventually lead to better treatments for patients dealing with these tough infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Minnesota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $249,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R00AI151080-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-10880627 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit include individuals with infections caused by Gram-positive bacteria, particularly those resistant to current antibiotic treatments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with infections caused by Gram-negative bacteria or those not affected by antibiotic resistance may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on identifying the functions of uncharacterized genes in Gram-positive bacteria, particularly in the context of antibiotic resistance. By utilizing advanced computational biology and chemical genetics, the project aims to uncover how these genes contribute to bacterial behavior, such as biofilm formation and interactions with other pathogens. Patients may benefit from insights gained through this research, which could lead to new strategies for combating antibiotic-resistant infections.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using functional genomics to understand bacterial gene functions, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Minnesota
Minneapolis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Willett, Julia — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Willett, Julia
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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.