Developing aerosol treatments for drug-resistant tuberculosis

Biomimetic Peptide Aerosols for Rapid Clearance of Pulmonary MDR Tuberculosis

NIH-funded research Pennsylvania State University, the · NIH-10974024

This study is testing a new spray treatment that could help people with multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) get better faster by working with current antibiotics to clear the infection from their lungs more effectively and with fewer side effects.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionPennsylvania State University, the NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (University Park, United States)
Project IDNIH-10974024 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on creating a new type of aerosol treatment designed to rapidly eliminate multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) from the lungs. By using engineered peptides that can self-assemble and target the bacteria, the treatment aims to work alongside existing antibiotics to shorten the lengthy treatment duration typically required for TB. The approach is innovative, as it seeks to enhance the effectiveness of current therapies while minimizing side effects. Patients may benefit from a more efficient and less burdensome treatment regimen.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with multidrug-resistant tuberculosis who require effective treatment options.

Not a fit: Patients with drug-sensitive tuberculosis or those who do not have tuberculosis may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the treatment time for patients with MDR-TB, improving adherence and outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using similar biomimetic approaches to enhance antibiotic efficacy, indicating potential for success in this novel application.

Where this research is happening

University Park, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.