New ways to fight antibiotic-resistant infections caused by certain bacteria
Antibiotic-sparing strategies targeting outer membrane ushers in Gram-negative bacterial pathogens
This study is exploring new ways to fight infections caused by tough bacteria that don't respond to regular antibiotics, by looking at how these bacteria build tiny structures that help them invade our bodies, with the goal of finding better treatment options for people dealing with these hard-to-treat infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11042758 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing innovative strategies to combat infections caused by antibiotic-resistant Gram-negative bacteria. It investigates the assembly of specific structures, known as chaperone-usher pathway (CUP) pili, which are essential for these bacteria to infect host tissues. By targeting the mechanisms that allow these bacteria to form these pili, the research aims to create alternative treatments that do not rely on traditional antibiotics. This approach could provide new options for patients suffering from multidrug-resistant infections.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients suffering from infections caused by antibiotic-resistant Gram-negative bacteria, such as carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter or multidrug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
Not a fit: Patients with infections caused by Gram-positive bacteria or those that are not resistant to antibiotics may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for patients with infections that are currently difficult to treat due to antibiotic resistance.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in targeting bacterial structures for treatment, indicating that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
Saint Louis, United States
- Washington University — Saint Louis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yuan, Peng — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Yuan, Peng
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.