Understanding how certain bacteria resist antibiotics
Official title: Genetic Vulnerabilities Exposed by Intrinsic Beta-Lactamase Overexpression in Acinteobacter Baumannii
Funded at Veterans Health Administration · NIH-10951503 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a tough bacteria called Acinetobacter baumannii becomes resistant to antibiotics, especially by using special enzymes, to help find new ways to treat infections caused by it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Veterans Health Administration NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Decatur, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | October 1, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| NIH project number | 5IK2BX005911-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10951503 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from infections caused by Acinetobacter baumannii, particularly those with multidrug-resistant strains.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with infections caused by bacteria other than Acinetobacter baumannii may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which the bacteria Acinetobacter baumannii develops resistance to antibiotics, particularly focusing on the role of beta-lactamases, which are enzymes that can break down these drugs. The study aims to explore how the overexpression of these enzymes affects the bacteria's ability to survive and adapt in the presence of antibiotics. By examining the genetic vulnerabilities associated with this resistance, researchers hope to uncover new targets for treatment. This work is crucial given the high rates of severe infections caused by this multidrug-resistant organism.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of new therapeutic strategies to combat infections caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding antibiotic resistance mechanisms in other bacterial species, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Veterans Health Administration
Decatur, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Colquhoun, Jennifer Marie — Veterans Health Administration
- Study coordinator: Colquhoun, Jennifer Marie
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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.