NIH-funded research R15 grant

Understanding how bacteria share antibiotic resistance genes

Official title: Interspecies reservoirs of antibiotic resistance for Neisseria gonorrhoeae

Funded at Rochester Institute of Technology · NIH-10705474 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking into how some bacteria can become resistant to antibiotics, specifically in gonorrhea infections, and it aims to find ways to better track and prevent these tough infections, which could lead to better treatments for patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeR15 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionRochester Institute of Technology
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Rochester, United States)
Project startJuly 1, 2023
Project endJune 30, 2026
Funding year2023
Award (this year)$443,927
NIH project number1R15AI174182-01A1
Project IDNIH-10705474 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have been diagnosed with gonorrhea or are at risk of infection.

Less likely to help

Patients who are not affected by gonorrhea or those who have already been treated successfully may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms behind antibiotic resistance in Neisseria gonorrhoeae, a significant public health threat due to rising infection rates and resistant strains. The project focuses on how commensal Neisseria bacteria can share DNA that contributes to resistance, particularly after antibiotic use in patients. By profiling the genetic makeup of these bacteria, the research aims to develop better methods for monitoring and preventing future outbreaks of resistant infections. Patients may benefit from improved treatment strategies and surveillance methods that arise from this work.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better prevention and treatment options for antibiotic-resistant gonorrhea.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding bacterial genetics can lead to significant advancements in managing antibiotic resistance, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

  • Rochester Institute of Technology
    Rochester, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Wadsworth, Crista Burke — Rochester Institute of Technology
  • Study coordinator: Wadsworth, Crista Burke

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.