Investigating essential genes of the gonorrhea-causing bacteria using CRISPR technology
Official title: A CRISPRi screen of essential genes of Neisseria gonorrhoeae
Funded at Northwestern University at Chicago · NIH-10892081 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at the important genes of the bacteria that cause gonorrhea to find new ways to treat or prevent the infection, especially as it becomes harder to treat with antibiotics.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | July 21, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $200,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI176389-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10892081 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals affected by gonorrhea or those at high risk of infection.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not affected by gonorrhea or do not have risk factors for the infection may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the essential genes of Neisseria gonorrhoeae, the bacteria responsible for gonorrhea, using a technique called CRISPR interference (CRISPRi). By identifying these essential genes, researchers aim to uncover new treatment options or vaccine candidates to combat rising rates of gonorrhea and antibiotic resistance. The study will create a library of gene knockouts to explore the bacteria's genetic makeup and its mechanisms of infection. This work is crucial for developing strategies to address the public health challenge posed by gonorrhea.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments or vaccines for gonorrhea, improving patient outcomes and addressing antibiotic resistance.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research using CRISPR technology has shown promise in identifying essential genes in other bacterial species, suggesting potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Northwestern University at Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Seifert, Hank S. — Northwestern University at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Seifert, Hank S.
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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.