Using histones to enhance the killing of harmful bacteria

Synergistic killing of bacterial pathogens by histones

NIH-funded research University of California-Irvine · NIH-11079351

This study is looking at how certain proteins called histones can help make treatments for stubborn bacterial infections, especially in people with chronic wounds, work better by teaming up with special molecules that fight bacteria.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California-Irvine NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Irvine, United States)
Project IDNIH-11079351 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how histones, proteins involved in DNA packaging, can be used to improve the effectiveness of treatments against bacterial infections, particularly in patients with chronic wounds. The study focuses on the interaction between histones and antimicrobial peptides to create a powerful combination that can kill bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which are often resistant to standard antibiotics. By understanding the mechanisms behind this synergy, the researchers aim to develop new antimicrobial therapies that could be more effective than current options.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients suffering from chronic wounds or infections caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

Not a fit: Patients with infections caused by bacteria that are not targeted by this research may not receive any benefit.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for bacterial infections that are currently difficult to manage, especially for patients with chronic conditions.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results using similar approaches to enhance antimicrobial effectiveness, indicating potential for success in this area.

Where this research is happening

Irvine, 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.
Conditions Bacterial Infections
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.