How bacteria share genes that help them survive antibiotics
Official title: Determinants underlying horizontal gene transfer-mediated pathogen success
Funded at University of Rochester · NIH-10911274 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how bacteria share genes with each other, which can sometimes make them resistant to antibiotics, and it's for anyone interested in understanding how we can better fight infections that don't respond to treatment.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Rochester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Rochester, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $385,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM150871-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10911274 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from infections caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with infections that are not caused by bacterial pathogens or those who are not affected by antibiotic resistance may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how bacteria transfer genetic material, specifically through a process called horizontal gene transfer, which can lead to antibiotic resistance. By studying the interactions between donor and recipient bacteria, the project aims to understand the conditions that favor the success of these gene transfers. The research employs advanced microbiological techniques and bioinformatics to analyze the genetic traits that contribute to bacterial survival and virulence. This knowledge could help in developing strategies to combat antibiotic-resistant infections.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new methods for preventing and treating antibiotic-resistant infections in patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding gene transfer mechanisms in bacteria, indicating that this approach has potential for significant findings.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Rochester
Rochester, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lopatkin, Allison — University of Rochester
- Study coordinator: Lopatkin, Allison
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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.