Federal Grant Award Summary

The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) awarded the University of Colorado-Denver a Project Grant of $766,730 under the Allergy and Infectious Diseases Research program (CFDA 93.855) effective February 20, 2026, with completion targeted for January 31, 2031. This research initiative focuses on identifying and characterizing bacteriocins—antimicrobial compounds—produced by Staphylococcus hominis, a commensal skin bacterium, to protect human skin against pathogenic Staphylococcus aureus. The project encompasses two primary research aims: (1) identification of additional protective bacteriocin-producing S. hominis strains through genome sequencing and bioinformatic analysis, with structure elucidation of selected molecules via mass spectrometry and nuclear magnetic resonance; and (2) determination of bacteriocin killing and resistance mechanisms, with particular focus on a novel daptide antibiotic (SHOM_D1) and a potent lantibiotic (SHOM_L4).

The research deliverables include comprehensive characterization of novel antimicrobial compounds with potential therapeutic applications for skin infection prevention, detailed mechanistic analyses of bacterial membrane interactions and resistance determinants, and foundational scientific knowledge to inform the potential development of bacteriocin-based treatments. The study leverages preliminary findings demonstrating protective efficacy in mouse infection models and represents an innovative approach to understanding how skin commensals naturally defend against pathogenic colonization.