Rapid near‑patient genetic test to find germs and antibiotic resistance in serious eye infections
Point-of-Care Metagenomics for Rapid Detection of pathogens and Antimicrobial Resistance in Sight-Threatening Ocular Infections
A quick genetic test used near the clinic to identify the microbes causing serious eye infections and whether they resist antibiotics, for people with sight‑threatening eye infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11145795 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
I would provide a small eye sample and researchers would use advanced metagenomic sequencing to read the DNA of any microbes present. The approach aims to detect bacteria, fungi, or parasites and identify genetic markers of antibiotic resistance much faster than standard cultures. The team is developing the workflow and analysis to run at or near the clinic so results could be available the same day. Faster, more precise results could help my doctor choose the right medicine sooner to protect my vision.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with suspected sight‑threatening ocular infections (for example severe keratitis or endophthalmitis) or infections not responding to standard therapy would be ideal candidates.
Not a fit: People with mild, routine eye infections unlikely to threaten vision or those unwilling or unable to provide an ocular sample are unlikely to benefit directly.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could let doctors choose targeted antimicrobials faster, reduce unnecessary broad‑spectrum treatments, and help prevent vision loss from resistant infections.
How similar studies have performed: Metagenomic sequencing has shown promise in detecting pathogens and resistance in case reports and other infection types, but rapid point‑of‑care use for eye infections is still relatively new.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bispo, Paulo J. M. — Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary
- Study coordinator: Bispo, Paulo J. M.
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.