Investigating a new toxin in antibiotic-resistant bacteria
Novel Bacteroides fragilis Competition Factor in Carbapenem-Resistant Strains
This study is looking at a new toxin made by certain bacteria in the gut that can make infections harder to treat, and it aims to find out how this toxin helps these bacteria survive and resist antibiotics, which could help us come up with better ways to fight these tough infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11040316 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how a newly discovered toxin, Bcf1, produced by certain strains of Bacteroides fragilis, contributes to the competition among bacteria in the gut. These strains are known for their resistance to critical antibiotics, making infections difficult to treat. By examining the molecular mechanisms of this toxin, the research aims to uncover how it helps these bacteria thrive and resist treatment. This could lead to new strategies for combating antibiotic resistance in these harmful bacteria.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with infections caused by antibiotic-resistant Bacteroides fragilis or those at risk of such infections.
Not a fit: Patients with infections caused by bacteria other than Bacteroides fragilis may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments or strategies to combat antibiotic-resistant infections caused by Bacteroides fragilis.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of targeting the Bcf1 toxin is novel, previous research has shown success in understanding bacterial competition and antibiotic resistance mechanisms.
Where this research is happening
Saint Louis, United States
- Washington University — Saint Louis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bubeck Wardenburg, Juliane — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Bubeck Wardenburg, Juliane
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.