Tracking drug-resistant bacteria through wastewater analysis
Operationalizing wastewater-based surveillance of multidrug-resistant bacteria
This study is looking at how testing wastewater can help us keep track of harmful bacteria that resist treatment, so we can better protect communities from infections without relying solely on individual patient tests.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Children's Hosp of Philadelphia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11080118 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how wastewater can be used to monitor the presence of multidrug-resistant organisms (MDRO) in communities. By analyzing wastewater, researchers aim to gather population-level data that can help predict and manage outbreaks of infections caused by these dangerous bacteria. The approach focuses on understanding the behavior of these bacteria in wastewater systems and how it correlates with clinical cases, potentially leading to more effective public health strategies. This method is designed to be more cost-effective and comprehensive compared to traditional patient-based testing.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living in communities where monitoring of antibiotic-resistant infections is critical.
Not a fit: Patients who are not part of communities affected by multidrug-resistant organisms may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved public health responses to infections caused by multidrug-resistant bacteria.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has successfully utilized wastewater surveillance for viral pathogens, indicating potential for similar success with bacterial monitoring.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- Children's Hosp of Philadelphia — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Annavajhala, Medini K — Children's Hosp of Philadelphia
- Study coordinator: Annavajhala, Medini K
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.