How bacteriophages and antibiotics work together to fight resistant infections
Interactions and mechanisms of bacteriophages and antibiotics in phage cocktails
This study is exploring how special viruses called bacteriophages can work together with antibiotics to help people with tough infections that don’t respond to regular treatments, especially for those dealing with drug-resistant bacteria.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Baylor College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11084434 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the interactions between bacteriophages and antibiotics to develop effective treatments for antibiotic-resistant infections. The approach focuses on understanding how these viruses can be used in combination with traditional antibiotics to combat bacteria that do not respond to standard treatments. By studying the mechanisms of these interactions, the research aims to create phage cocktails that can be tailored to individual patients' needs, particularly those suffering from infections caused by drug-resistant bacteria. The research is led by Dr. Nicholls at Baylor College of Medicine, who integrates clinical practice with basic science to improve patient outcomes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals of all ages suffering from infections caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria, particularly those with conditions like chronic osteomyelitis or those with medical devices.
Not a fit: Patients with infections that are not caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment options for patients with antibiotic-resistant infections, potentially saving lives and improving recovery rates.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using bacteriophages to treat antibiotic-resistant infections, indicating that this approach could be a viable treatment option.
Where this research is happening
Houston, United States
- Baylor College of Medicine — Houston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Nicholls, Paul — Baylor College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Nicholls, Paul
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.