Targeting a new pathway to kill tuberculosis bacteria
Targeting trans-translation to kill M. tuberculosis non-replicating persister cells
This study is exploring a new way to fight tuberculosis by blocking a specific part of the bacteria that helps it survive, with the hope that this could lead to faster and better treatments for people with the disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas at Austin NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Austin, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11204349 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates a novel approach to combat tuberculosis by targeting a specific pathway in the bacteria that causes the disease. The focus is on understanding how this pathway, known as trans-translation, helps the bacteria survive and grow, especially in its non-replicating state. By using small molecule inhibitors, the research aims to determine if blocking this pathway can effectively kill both active and dormant tuberculosis bacteria in the body. If successful, this could lead to the development of new antibiotics that shorten treatment times and improve outcomes for patients with tuberculosis.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with tuberculosis, particularly those with drug-resistant strains or those who have persistent infections.
Not a fit: Patients with non-tuberculosis infections or those who do not have active tuberculosis will not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of new antibiotics that significantly reduce the duration of tuberculosis treatment and improve patient recovery.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in targeting bacterial pathways for antibiotic development, indicating that this approach could be viable.
Where this research is happening
Austin, United States
- University of Texas at Austin — Austin, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Keiler, Kenneth C — University of Texas at Austin
- Study coordinator: Keiler, Kenneth C
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.