Creating a new antibiotic to target Lyme disease bacteria in mice and ticks
Development and Field Testing of a Novel Reservoir Targeted Antibiotic Against Borrelia burgdorferi
['FUNDING_R01'] · TUFTS UNIVERSITY BOSTON · NIH-11116853
This study is working on a new antibiotic to help fight Lyme disease by targeting the mice and ticks that spread it, which could lead to better ways to control the disease and help patients like you.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | TUFTS UNIVERSITY BOSTON (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11116853 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a novel antibiotic specifically designed to target the reservoirs of Lyme disease, namely mice and ticks. The approach combines expertise from multiple laboratories to create an effective treatment that can eradicate Borrelia burgdorferi, the bacteria responsible for Lyme disease. The researchers aim to address the growing concern of antibiotic resistance by using hygromycin A, which has shown strong activity against the bacteria while minimizing resistance development. Patients may benefit from improved strategies to control Lyme disease and its transmission.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals living in areas where Lyme disease is prevalent, particularly those who may have been exposed to ticks.
Not a fit: Patients who do not live in Lyme disease-endemic areas or those who have already been effectively treated for Lyme disease may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective control of Lyme disease, reducing its incidence and improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in developing targeted antibiotics for bacterial infections, but this specific approach to Lyme disease is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
BOSTON, UNITED STATES
- TUFTS UNIVERSITY BOSTON — BOSTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: HU, LINDEN T — TUFTS UNIVERSITY BOSTON
- Study coordinator: HU, LINDEN T
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.