Understanding how bacteria become resistant to fluoroquinolone antibiotics

Mechanism of the Fluoroquinolone Resistance Acquisition in Enterobacteria

NIH-funded research University of Washington · NIH-11055465

This study is looking at how some types of E. coli bacteria become resistant to common antibiotics used for urinary tract infections, so we can better understand why this happens and find ways to improve treatments for those infections.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Washington NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Seattle, United States)
Project IDNIH-11055465 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms by which certain strains of Escherichia coli develop resistance to fluoroquinolone antibiotics, which are commonly used to treat urinary tract infections. The study focuses on specific mutations in bacterial DNA that contribute to this resistance and explores why some strains are more likely to acquire these mutations than others. By analyzing the genetic changes in these bacteria, researchers aim to identify potential barriers to resistance and understand how resistance can be transmitted between different bacterial strains. This knowledge could lead to improved treatment strategies for infections caused by resistant bacteria.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with urinary tract infections caused by Escherichia coli, particularly those who have experienced treatment failures with fluoroquinolone antibiotics.

Not a fit: Patients with infections caused by bacteria that are not Escherichia coli or those who have not been treated with fluoroquinolone antibiotics may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better treatment options for patients suffering from antibiotic-resistant infections.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in understanding antibiotic resistance mechanisms, making this study a continuation of established scientific inquiry.

Where this research is happening

Seattle, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.