Mapping how bacterial genes interact during the evolution of antibiotic resistance
Mapping epistatic interactions in molecular evolution of antibiotic resistance
['FUNDING_R01'] · UT SOUTHWESTERN MEDICAL CENTER · NIH-11310157
Researchers will map how genetic changes in bacteria combine to cause antibiotic resistance to help guide design of drugs that work longer for patients.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UT SOUTHWESTERN MEDICAL CENTER (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (DALLAS, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11310157 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Researchers focus on two common resistance routes: changes to drug-target enzymes like DHFR and breakdown of antibiotics by beta-lactamases. In the lab they will create and test many enzyme variants to see how mutations interact (epistasis) and which paths lead to resistance. The team will design mutant-specific DHFR inhibitors and new 'beta-lactamase trap' molecules aimed at selecting against resistant bacteria. Laboratory experiments with bacterial enzymes and engineered molecules will be used to identify compounds that block common resistance paths.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with infections caused by bacteria known to be resistant to beta-lactam antibiotics or to drugs targeting DHFR would be the most likely future candidates for related clinical testing.
Not a fit: Patients with non-bacterial illnesses or infections unrelated to the specific resistance mechanisms studied would not expect direct benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could produce drug leads or strategies that slow or prevent common forms of antibiotic resistance, keeping existing antibiotics effective longer.
How similar studies have performed: Prior laboratory studies mapping mutation effects in enzymes like DHFR and studying beta-lactamases have informed drug design, but the proposed 'beta-lactamase trap' approach is a novel concept.
Where this research is happening
DALLAS, UNITED STATES
- UT SOUTHWESTERN MEDICAL CENTER — DALLAS, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: TOPRAK, ERDAL — UT SOUTHWESTERN MEDICAL CENTER
- Study coordinator: TOPRAK, ERDAL
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.