How bacteria change their DNA to survive antibiotics
Official title: Contribution of insertion sequence mediated tandem chromosomal amplification to bacterial heterogeneity
Funded at Pennsylvania State University, the · NIH-10872780 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how tiny pieces of DNA in bacteria can change their traits, helping them survive against antibiotics, and the findings could lead to better treatments for infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Pennsylvania State University, the NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (University Park, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $456,746 |
| NIH project number | 1R01GM154193-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10872780 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals suffering from bacterial infections, particularly those caused by antibiotic-resistant strains.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with viral infections or those not affected by bacterial resistance may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how certain DNA elements in bacteria can lead to variations within bacterial populations by amplifying segments of their chromosomes. By focusing on insertion sequences, which are mobile DNA elements, the research aims to understand how these sequences can create diverse bacterial traits that may help them survive antibiotic treatments. The study employs advanced genetic techniques to analyze the mechanisms behind this amplification and its effects on bacterial behavior. Patients may benefit from insights gained into bacterial resistance, potentially leading to more effective antibiotic therapies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for combating antibiotic-resistant infections.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding genetic mechanisms in bacteria can lead to breakthroughs in treating antibiotic resistance, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Pennsylvania State University, the
University Park, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Meredith, Timothy C. — Pennsylvania State University, the
- Study coordinator: Meredith, Timothy C.
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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.