Understanding and combating antibiotic resistance in bacterial infections
Attacking failure of antibiotic treatment by targeting antimicrobial resistance enabler cell-states
This study is looking into how certain bacteria, like Acinetobacter baumannii, can survive antibiotics even when they seem like they shouldn't, with the goal of finding better ways to diagnose and treat infections for patients who need it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston Children's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10911817 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on the mechanisms behind antibiotic resistance, particularly in bacteria like Acinetobacter baumannii. It aims to identify the genetic factors and cell-states that enable bacteria to survive antibiotic treatment, even when they appear susceptible. By studying these transient cell-states, the research seeks to develop new diagnostic methods and treatment strategies that can preemptively address antibiotic treatment failures. Patients may benefit from improved therapies that effectively target resistant infections.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include patients suffering from infections caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria, particularly those involving Acinetobacter baumannii.
Not a fit: Patients with infections caused by bacteria that are not resistant to antibiotics may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for bacterial infections that currently evade standard antibiotic therapies.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in understanding antibiotic resistance mechanisms, but this specific approach targeting transient cell-states is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Boston Children's Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Van Opijnen, Tim — Boston Children's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Van Opijnen, Tim
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.