Investigating antibiotic-resistant strains of C. difficile in Texas and Kenya
Characterizing Vancomycin-Resistant C. difficile Strains at Two Geographically Distinct Locations
This study is looking at how some strains of the bacteria that cause Clostridioides difficile infections are becoming resistant to common antibiotics, by analyzing stool samples from patients in Texas and Kenya, to help improve treatment options for people affected by this infection.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11061028 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI), a leading cause of antibiotic-associated diarrhea and death. The study examines stool samples from patients in Texas and Kenya to identify strains of C. difficile that are resistant to common antibiotics like vancomycin and metronidazole. By utilizing whole-genome sequencing, researchers aim to understand the genetic factors contributing to antibiotic resistance in these strains. The findings could help inform treatment guidelines and improve patient outcomes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with Clostridioides difficile infection, particularly those who have not responded to standard antibiotic treatments.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have a diagnosis of C. difficile infection or those who are not experiencing antibiotic-associated diarrhea may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatment strategies for patients suffering from antibiotic-resistant C. difficile infections.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in identifying antibiotic resistance patterns in bacterial infections, indicating that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Houston, United States
- University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston — Houston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Darkoh, Charles — University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
- Study coordinator: Darkoh, Charles
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.