Controlling the spread of antibiotic resistance using engineered plasmids
Targeted control of self-transmissible plasmids by using engineered interfering plasmids
This study is exploring a new way to fight antibiotic resistance by creating special tools that can stop the spread of harmful genes among bacteria, which could help develop better treatments for infections that are hard to treat.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10819543 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a novel approach to combat antibiotic resistance by targeting self-transmissible plasmids, which are genetic elements that can spread antibiotic resistance among bacteria. The researchers aim to create engineered interfering plasmids that can suppress the transfer of these harmful plasmids, thereby reducing the spread of antibiotic resistance. By utilizing synthetic biology techniques, the study seeks to enhance the loss of these plasmids from bacterial populations, potentially leading to more effective treatments for infections. Patients may benefit from this research as it could lead to new strategies for managing antibiotic-resistant infections.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients suffering from infections caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
Not a fit: Patients with infections that are not caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the prevalence of antibiotic-resistant infections, improving treatment outcomes for patients.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using engineered plasmids to control gene transfer, indicating potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
Durham, United States
- Duke University — Durham, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: You, Lingchong — Duke University
- Study coordinator: You, Lingchong
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.