Investigating how DNA changes affect tuberculosis bacteria's ability to survive antibiotics
Official title: Mycobacterial Epigenetics: Investigating the impact of DNA methylation on antibiotic tolerance and persistence
Funded at Stellenbosch University · NIH-10977243 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a chemical change in the DNA of tuberculosis bacteria helps them survive antibiotics, with the hope that the findings will lead to better treatments for patients with tuberculosis.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Stellenbosch University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stellenbosch, SOUTH AFRICA) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $106,160 |
| NIH project number | 1K43TW012786-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10977243 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with tuberculosis, particularly those experiencing treatment-resistant forms of the disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-tuberculosis bacterial infections or those who do not have a history of antibiotic treatment may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how DNA methylation, a type of chemical modification, influences the ability of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) to survive antibiotic treatment. By exploring the role of DNA methylation in the stress response and persistence of Mtb, the researchers aim to uncover mechanisms that allow these bacteria to evade treatment. The study will utilize advanced techniques, including microfluidic imaging, to observe how these bacteria behave under different conditions. Patients with tuberculosis may benefit from insights gained through this research, potentially leading to more effective treatments.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies for tuberculosis, reducing the duration and complexity of therapy.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding epigenetic mechanisms in bacteria can lead to breakthroughs in treatment, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Stellenbosch University
Stellenbosch, South Africa Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kriel, Nastassja Lise — Stellenbosch University
- Study coordinator: Kriel, Nastassja Lise
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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.