Understanding how a new antibiotic might fight Mycoplasma genitalium infections
Nitroimidazole susceptibility and mechanisms of resistance in Mycoplasma genitalium
This project looks for new ways to treat *Mycoplasma genitalium* infections, especially those that are hard to cure with current medicines.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11124604 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Mycoplasma genitalium is a common sexually transmitted infection that can cause serious health problems like pelvic inflammatory disease and infertility. Unfortunately, many existing antibiotics are no longer effective against this infection, leaving patients with limited treatment options. This research explores a new type of antibiotic, called nitroimidazole, to see if it can successfully kill *M. genitalium*. We also want to understand why some *M. genitalium* strains might become resistant to these new antibiotics, so we can develop better long-term solutions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research is foundational and does not directly involve patient participation, but it aims to help individuals with *Mycoplasma genitalium* infections, particularly those with resistant strains.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have *Mycoplasma genitalium* infection or who respond well to existing treatments may not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new and effective antibiotic treatments for *Mycoplasma genitalium* infections, especially for those resistant to current medications.
How similar studies have performed: While nitroimidazole antibiotics are used for other bacterial infections, their effectiveness and resistance mechanisms against *Mycoplasma genitalium* are largely untested, making this a novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Seattle, United States
- University of Washington — Seattle, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wood, Gwendolyn — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Wood, Gwendolyn
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.