Investigating how microcin proteins can fight antibiotic-resistant bacteria

From microcin sequence to function: linking sequence variation to antimicrobial activity

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN · NIH-11074979

This study is looking at new ways to create antibiotics that can fight tough bacteria that don't respond to regular treatments, using special proteins that can get through the bacteria's defenses, so that patients can have better options for their infections.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN (nih funded)
Locations1 site (AUSTIN, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11074979 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing new antibiotics to combat multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria, which are difficult to treat due to their protective outer membrane. The project explores microcins, small antibacterial proteins that can penetrate this membrane by hijacking active transport systems. By studying the sequence variations of these proteins, the research aims to identify their mechanisms of action and enhance their effectiveness against resistant pathogens. Patients may benefit from new antibiotic treatments derived from these findings.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients suffering from infections caused by multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria.

Not a fit: Patients with infections caused by Gram-positive bacteria or those not affected by antibiotic resistance may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of novel antibiotics that effectively treat infections caused by resistant bacteria.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using similar approaches to develop antibiotics, but the specific focus on microcins represents a novel area of investigation.

Where this research is happening

AUSTIN, 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 →

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.