How bacteria share genes that cause antibiotic resistance
Machinery of the Microbial Mobilome
Researchers are figuring out how Staphylococcus bacteria swap genes that help them survive antibiotics so future treatments can better stop drug-resistant infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11145070 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project looks at the mobile genetic elements — the pieces of DNA bacteria use to share traits — that help Staphylococcus survive antibiotics and phages. Scientists combine biochemical experiments, comparisons of gene sequences, and laboratory studies of enzymes to see how these mobile elements copy, move, and are controlled. The team focuses on SCC elements and pathogenicity islands, which are linked to MRSA, and has already found new enzymes like unusual DNA glycosylases and primases. By following how these molecular machines work and evolve, the researchers aim to reveal points where gene transfer could be blocked or detected.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with Staphylococcus infections, especially those with MRSA, are the most relevant group because the work targets Staphylococcal mobile elements.
Not a fit: Patients with non-bacterial illnesses or infections not caused by Staphylococcus are unlikely to see direct benefits from this specific laboratory research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to new ways to prevent or detect the spread of antibiotic-resistance genes and inspire tools to combat MRSA and other drug-resistant infections.
How similar studies have performed: Prior laboratory studies of mobile genetic elements have successfully revealed key enzymes and mechanisms, and parts of this work build on those successes while also exploring novel enzymes and pathways.
Where this research is happening
Chicago, United States
- University of Chicago — Chicago, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rice, Phoebe a — University of Chicago
- Study coordinator: Rice, Phoebe a
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.