A new treatment approach for drug-resistant bacterial infections

A Novel Broad-Spectrum Nanoimmunotherapeutic Approach for Combating Multidrug Resistant Bacteria

NIH-funded research University of Wisconsin-Madison · NIH-11028618

This study is testing a new treatment using tiny particles coated with red blood cells to help your immune system fight tough bacterial infections that don't respond to regular antibiotics, especially those caused by ESKAPE germs.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Madison, United States)
Project IDNIH-11028618 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a novel nanoimmunotherapy to combat multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacterial infections, particularly those caused by ESKAPE pathogens. The approach utilizes red blood cell membrane-coated nanoparticles that enhance the immune response against these bacteria by sensitizing them to oxidative killing and boosting neutrophil activity. The research aims to create a broad-spectrum treatment that can effectively target and eliminate antibiotic-resistant bacteria, which are becoming increasingly difficult to treat with traditional antibiotics. Preliminary studies in mouse models have shown promising results, indicating the potential effectiveness of this innovative therapy.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with infections caused by multidrug-resistant bacteria, particularly those involving ESKAPE pathogens.

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

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new, effective treatment option for patients suffering from infections caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success with similar non-antibiotic approaches to combat antibiotic-resistant infections, indicating a promising avenue for further exploration.

Where this research is happening

Madison, 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.