New methods to analyze the genomes of leprosy bacteria from various samples
Official title: New approaches to sequence genomes of Mycobacterium leprae from clinical and field specimens
Funded at Colorado State University · NIH-11129824 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on a new way to better understand the leprosy-causing bacteria by improving how we can read its DNA from tiny samples, which will help doctors and researchers learn more about the bacteria and how it responds to treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Colorado State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Fort Collins, United States) |
| Project start | July 2, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $77,097 |
| NIH project number | 5R03AI185405-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11129824 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with leprosy or those who may have been exposed to Mycobacterium leprae.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have leprosy or are not at risk of exposure to the bacteria may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on improving the ability to sequence the genomes of Mycobacterium leprae, the bacteria that causes leprosy, from clinical and field specimens. It aims to develop a new method called selective whole genome amplification (SWGA) that can extract and amplify bacterial DNA from very small samples, making it easier to study the bacteria's characteristics and resistance to drugs. By enhancing the sensitivity and applicability of genome sequencing, this research seeks to overcome current limitations that hinder leprosy research and diagnostics.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective diagnostics and treatments for leprosy, ultimately improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in developing new genomic sequencing methods for other bacterial pathogens, indicating potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Colorado State University
Fort Collins, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Avanzi, Charlotte — Colorado State University
- Study coordinator: Avanzi, Charlotte
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.