A new method to quickly test gonorrhea for antibiotic resistance

Single-cell based diagnostic platform with single-molecular transcriptional response profiling for rapid phenotypic antimicrobial susceptibility testing of gonorrhea

NIH-funded research Johns Hopkins University · NIH-11118824

This study is working on a quick test that helps doctors see how the gonorrhea bacteria react to different antibiotics at the level of individual cells, so they can choose the best treatment faster and tackle the issue of antibiotic resistance.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionJohns Hopkins University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Baltimore, United States)
Project IDNIH-11118824 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a rapid diagnostic platform that can identify how Neisseria gonorrhoeae, the bacteria causing gonorrhea, responds to various antibiotics at the single-cell level. By profiling the transcriptional responses of individual cells, the goal is to provide timely information on antimicrobial susceptibility, which is crucial for effective treatment. This approach aims to address the growing problem of antimicrobial resistance by allowing healthcare providers to make informed decisions about antibiotic prescriptions much faster than current methods. The research seeks to bridge the gap created by the shift towards nucleic acid amplification tests, which do not provide susceptibility data.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with gonorrhea who require timely and effective treatment options.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have gonorrhea or those whose infections are not caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and personalized treatment options for patients with gonorrhea, reducing the risk of complications and the spread of antibiotic-resistant strains.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in rapid antimicrobial susceptibility testing, but this specific approach using single-cell profiling is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Baltimore, 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.
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.