Developing new antibiotics that target bacterial membranes to fight infections.

New Antimicrobials that Act Via Membrane Remodeling for Critical Gram-Negative Pathogens

['FUNDING_SBIR_1'] · XIRETSA INC. · NIH-11007292

This study is working on new antibiotics that can specifically fight tough bacteria that don't respond to regular treatments, aiming to help people with serious infections like those caused by Klebsiella pneumoniae, while making sure these new medicines are safe for your body.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_SBIR_1']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorXIRETSA INC. (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SANTA BARBARA, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11007292 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on creating novel antibiotics that specifically target the membranes of bacteria, particularly those that are resistant to current treatments. By utilizing a new class of compounds known as Anti-infective Conjugated Electrolytes (ACEs), the project aims to develop effective treatments for serious infections caused by resistant bacteria, such as Klebsiella pneumoniae. The approach involves understanding how these compounds can selectively kill bacteria while minimizing harm to human cells, which is crucial for their safety and efficacy. The research will involve laboratory testing to assess the effectiveness and safety of these new antibiotics in various conditions.

Who could benefit from this research

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

Not a fit: Patients with infections caused by non-bacterial pathogens or those who do not have severe infections may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of new antibiotics that effectively treat infections caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria, potentially saving lives.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach of targeting bacterial membranes is promising, it has not yet been widely tested in clinical settings, making this research a novel endeavor.

Where this research is happening

SANTA BARBARA, 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 →

Conditions: Airway infections

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.