Creating new treatments to target Clostridioides difficile infections
Official title: Development of probiotic-based and Clostridioides difficile-targeted therapeutics
Funded at University of South Florida · NIH-11096003 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at new ways to treat Clostridioides difficile infections, which can happen after taking antibiotics, by using special tools that target the bacteria directly, so patients can have a safer and more effective option to help prevent these infections from coming back.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of South Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tampa, United States) |
| Project start | May 28, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $190,313 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI183094-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11096003 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients who have experienced recurrent Clostridioides difficile infections or are at high risk for such infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not been diagnosed with Clostridioides difficile infections or those who are not at risk for such infections may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing innovative therapies to combat Clostridioides difficile infections, which are often caused by antibiotic use that disrupts gut bacteria. The approach involves using a specific phage lysin and unique antibodies that target the bacteria directly, potentially offering a more effective treatment option. By exploring these non-antibiotic methods, the research aims to reduce the recurrence of infections that current treatments struggle to manage. Patients may benefit from these new therapies that could provide a safer and more effective way to treat this serious condition.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for Clostridioides difficile infections, reducing recurrence rates and improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using phage therapy and targeted antibodies for bacterial infections, indicating potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of South Florida
Tampa, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sun, Xingmin — University of South Florida
- Study coordinator: Sun, Xingmin
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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.