Developing a new method to create antibiotics using engineered proteins

A Plug-and-Play Platform for Continuous Directed Evolution of Nonribosomal Peptide Synthetases

['FUNDING_R21'] · BAYLOR COLLEGE OF MEDICINE · NIH-10867141

This study is working on creating new antibiotics by tweaking certain proteins to make them better at fighting tough bacterial infections, which could help patients who need more effective treatments.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorBAYLOR COLLEGE OF MEDICINE (nih funded)
Locations1 site (HOUSTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10867141 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on enhancing the production of nonribosomal peptides (NRPs), which are crucial for developing new antibiotics. By engineering specific proteins known as nonribosomal peptide synthetases (NRPSs), the project aims to create tailored antibiotics that can combat bacterial infections more effectively. The approach involves manipulating the genetic code that dictates how these proteins assemble NRPs, potentially leading to innovative treatments for antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Patients may benefit from new antibiotic therapies that are more effective against infections.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients suffering from bacterial infections, particularly those caused by antibiotic-resistant strains.

Not a fit: Patients with viral infections or those who do not have bacterial infections may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of novel antibiotics that are more effective against resistant bacterial strains.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in engineering nonribosomal peptide synthetases for antibiotic development, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

HOUSTON, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.