Detecting antibiotic resistance in syphilis bacteria quickly and easily
Rapid Point-of-Care Detection of T. pallidum Resistance to Macrolides and Tetracyclines by Multiplexed Loop-mediated amplification (LAMP)
This study is working on a quick test to help doctors find out if the bacteria that cause syphilis are resistant to certain antibiotics, so they can choose the best treatment for patients, especially those who might have a harder time with long treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10947153 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a rapid point-of-care test to detect resistance of the syphilis-causing bacteria, Treponema pallidum, to commonly used antibiotics like macrolides and tetracyclines. By utilizing a technique called multiplexed loop-mediated amplification (LAMP), the goal is to create a diagnostic tool that can be used in clinical settings to quickly identify resistant strains. This could help healthcare providers make informed decisions about antibiotic treatment, especially for patients who may struggle with long treatment regimens. The research aims to address the growing issue of antibiotic resistance in syphilis treatment, particularly in populations at higher risk.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with syphilis, particularly those at risk of antibiotic resistance due to treatment challenges.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have syphilis or those whose infections are not affected by antibiotic resistance may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and tailored antibiotic treatments for patients with syphilis, improving health outcomes and reducing complications.
How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using rapid diagnostic tests for antibiotic resistance is gaining traction, this specific application for Treponema pallidum is relatively novel and untested.
Where this research is happening
Seattle, United States
- University of Washington — Seattle, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lieberman, Joshua Abraham — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Lieberman, Joshua Abraham
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.