Exploring a virus that infects the gonorrhea bacteria
Official title: Investigating Neisseria gonorrhoeae double-stranded bacteriophage
Funded at Northwestern University at Chicago · NIH-11072757 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new way to fight gonorrhea by using special viruses that target the bacteria causing the infection, and it’s for anyone interested in better treatments for this common condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | September 26, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $229,411 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AI188783-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11072757 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with gonorrhea or those at high risk of infection.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have gonorrhea or are not at risk for sexually transmitted infections may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the potential of double-stranded bacteriophages that target Neisseria gonorrhoeae, the bacteria responsible for gonorrhea. The team will use advanced techniques like CRISPR interference to manipulate gene expression in the bacteria and assess whether these phages can be produced and used to infect different strains. By understanding the genetic mechanisms involved, the research aims to uncover new ways to combat this persistent infection.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments for gonorrhea, potentially reducing antibiotic resistance.
How similar studies have gone: While there have been some studies on bacteriophages, this specific approach using CRISPR technology in Neisseria gonorrhoeae is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Northwestern University at Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Seifert, Hank S. — Northwestern University at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Seifert, Hank S.
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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.