Targeting and eliminating harmful bacteria in the bladder
Official title: Targeted ablation of bladder-resident uropathogenic bacteria with a novel cell penetrating dye
Funded at University of Texas Dallas · NIH-10952828 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new way to help people with recurring urinary tract infections by using a special dye that can target and eliminate stubborn bacteria in the bladder, which could lead to fewer infections and better treatment outcomes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Dallas NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Richardson, United States) |
| Project start | August 28, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $249,951 |
| NIH project number | 1R21DK140688-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10952828 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from recurrent urinary tract infections that have not responded well to conventional antibiotic therapies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have recurrent urinary tract infections or those whose infections are effectively managed with current antibiotic treatments may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on addressing recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) by developing a novel method to specifically target and eliminate uropathogenic bacteria residing in the bladder. The approach involves using a new cell-penetrating dye that can reach bacteria embedded in bladder tissue, which are often resistant to standard antibiotic treatments. By utilizing advanced techniques, the research aims to improve the effectiveness of treatment and reduce the recurrence of infections. Patients participating in this research may undergo procedures that aim to directly ablate these bacteria, potentially leading to better management of their condition.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the frequency of recurrent UTIs and improve the quality of life for affected patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promise in targeting tissue-resident bacteria using innovative techniques, suggesting that this approach could lead to meaningful advancements in treatment.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Dallas
Richardson, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gassensmith, Jeremiah J. — University of Texas Dallas
- Study coordinator: Gassensmith, Jeremiah J.
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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.