Using chemical probes to control bacterial communication signals

Chemical probes to modulate acyl-homoserine lactone quorum signal synthesis

['FUNDING_R15'] · BOISE STATE UNIVERSITY · NIH-10579520

This study is looking at how bacteria talk to each other and aims to create new treatments that can stop them from communicating, which could help make infections less severe for patients.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R15']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorBOISE STATE UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (BOISE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10579520 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how certain bacteria communicate with each other through chemical signals known as acyl-homoserine lactones (AHLs). By developing small molecule inhibitors that target the enzymes responsible for producing these signals, the research aims to disrupt bacterial communication and potentially reduce their virulence. The approach involves creating specific chemical probes to identify new binding sites on these enzymes, which could lead to more effective treatments against bacterial infections. Patients may benefit from new therapies that can limit harmful bacterial behaviors.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from infections caused by Gram-negative bacteria, such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

Not a fit: Patients with infections caused by Gram-positive bacteria or those not affected by quorum sensing mechanisms may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments that reduce the virulence of harmful bacteria, improving patient outcomes in bacterial infections.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using chemical inhibitors to disrupt bacterial communication, indicating that this approach may yield successful outcomes.

Where this research is happening

BOISE, 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.