Tracking antibiotic-resistant gonorrhea using DNA from clinical swabs
Whole Genome Sequencing of N. gonorrhoeae from Non-Culture Based Clinical Specimens to Surveil for Emerging Resistance
['FUNDING_R21'] · RUSH UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER · NIH-11170638
We will use DNA sequencing of throat, rectal, and genital samples to spot emerging antibiotic-resistant gonorrhea in people who test positive for the infection.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R21'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | RUSH UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (CHICAGO, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11170638 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
We will collect non-culture clinical specimens (for example throat, rectal, urine, or vaginal swabs) and apply whole genome sequencing directly to those samples to detect Neisseria gonorrhoeae and its resistance genes. Because gonorrhea is often not grown in culture in routine care, this work builds a laboratory pipeline to read the bacteria's genetic code without needing a culture. The project focuses on extra-genital sites like the throat and rectum where resistant strains can hide and spread, especially in networks with higher transmission. The goal is to improve surveillance so public health teams can detect and respond to new resistant strains faster.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates are people who have or are being tested for gonorrhea and who can provide throat, rectal, or genital samples at participating clinics.
Not a fit: People without gonorrhea or those seeking immediate changes to their personal treatment plan are unlikely to get direct clinical benefit from participation in this surveillance work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could help public health teams detect resistant gonorrhea earlier and guide better treatment and prevention strategies to reduce spread.
How similar studies have performed: Whole genome sequencing of cultured gonorrhea has been useful for tracking resistance, but applying sequencing directly to non-culture clinical samples is newer and less established.
Where this research is happening
CHICAGO, UNITED STATES
- RUSH UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER — CHICAGO, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: POPOVICH, KYLE JEANNE — RUSH UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER
- Study coordinator: POPOVICH, KYLE JEANNE
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.