Developing new antibiotics by targeting a key enzyme in bacteria

Targeting DXP synthase in bacterial metabolism

NIH-funded research Johns Hopkins University · NIH-11023054

This study is looking for new ways to fight infections that don't respond to regular antibiotics by targeting a specific enzyme in bacteria, which helps them survive in our bodies, with the goal of creating better treatments for people dealing with these tough infections.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionJohns Hopkins University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Baltimore, United States)
Project IDNIH-11023054 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on finding new ways to combat antibiotic-resistant infections by targeting a specific enzyme called DXP synthase in bacteria. The researchers aim to understand how this enzyme helps bacteria adapt and survive in the human body during infections. By inhibiting DXP synthase, they hope to disrupt the bacteria's ability to grow and thrive, leading to the development of new antibacterial treatments. The approach involves studying the structure and function of the enzyme to create selective inhibitors that can effectively fight bacterial pathogens.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from infections caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

Not a fit: Patients with infections caused by bacteria that are not resistant to current antibiotics may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of new antibiotics that are effective against drug-resistant bacterial infections.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in targeting bacterial metabolic processes for antibiotic development, indicating that this approach could be effective.

Where this research is happening

Baltimore, 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.
Conditions antibiotic resistant infectionsascending urinary tract infection
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.