Exploring how certain enzymes affect tuberculosis bacteria
Evaluating the Role of L,D-Transpeptidases in Mycobacterial Pathogenesis
This study is exploring how common antibiotics like amoxicillin might be used to help treat tuberculosis, especially the tougher drug-resistant types, by figuring out how they can break down the bacteria's protective wall, which could lead to quicker and better treatments for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Oregon Health & Science University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Portland, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10991042 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the potential of repurposing clinically-approved β-lactam antibiotics, like amoxicillin, to treat tuberculosis (TB), particularly drug-resistant strains. The study focuses on understanding the role of specific enzymes, known as L,D-transpeptidases, in the survival of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. By developing new molecular probes, researchers aim to identify how these antibiotics can effectively target and disrupt the bacterial cell wall, potentially leading to faster and more effective treatments for TB. This approach could significantly reduce the time patients need to wait for new therapies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with drug-resistant tuberculosis or those at high risk of developing it.
Not a fit: Patients with non-tuberculosis infections or those who do not have drug-resistant strains of TB may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide faster and more effective treatment options for patients with drug-resistant tuberculosis.
How similar studies have performed: There have been previous reports of success using β-lactam antibiotics to treat drug-resistant TB, indicating that this approach has potential based on earlier findings.
Where this research is happening
Portland, United States
- Oregon Health & Science University — Portland, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Beatty, Kimberly Elizabeth — Oregon Health & Science University
- Study coordinator: Beatty, Kimberly Elizabeth
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 below.