Identifying bacterial versus viral causes of respiratory infections

Transcriptional Profiling to Discriminate Bacterial and Non-bacterial Respiratory Illnesses

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER · NIH-10555338

This study is looking at how checking the genes in your blood can help doctors tell if you have a bacterial or viral infection when you're having respiratory issues, so they can give you the right treatment and avoid unnecessary antibiotics, especially for people with other health conditions.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER (nih funded)
Locations1 site (ROCHESTER, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10555338 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how gene expression profiling of blood can help distinguish between bacterial and viral respiratory infections. By analyzing the unique patterns of gene activity in patients, the study aims to develop accurate diagnostic tests that can guide appropriate antibiotic use. This is particularly important as many patients receive unnecessary antibiotics due to uncertainty about the cause of their illness. The research focuses on improving diagnostic accuracy for various patient subgroups, including those with underlying health conditions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals experiencing acute respiratory infections, particularly those with underlying health conditions.

Not a fit: Patients with non-respiratory illnesses or those who do not experience acute respiratory infections may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate diagnoses and reduce unnecessary antibiotic prescriptions, ultimately combating antibiotic resistance.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise in using gene expression profiling for diagnostic purposes, but this approach is still being optimized for clinical use.

Where this research is happening

ROCHESTER, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Bacterial Infections

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.