Understanding how certain viruses in bacteria make MRSA infections worse
Mechanisms of Prophage-Mediated Virulence Driving Community-Acquired MRSA Contagion
This study is looking at how certain viruses that attack bacteria might make a common type of staph infection, which can be tough to treat, even worse in kids, with the hope of finding new ways to prevent and treat these infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | New York University School of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10851959 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of bacteriophages, which are viruses that infect bacteria, in enhancing the virulence of community-acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (CA-MRSA). By studying a specific strain of CA-MRSA that has caused outbreaks among children, the researchers aim to identify the genetic mechanisms that allow these viruses to contribute to severe skin infections. The approach includes genetic sequencing and engineering of bacterial strains to observe how these phages affect infection severity. This work could lead to new insights into preventing and treating MRSA infections.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children under 12 years old who are at risk for or have experienced severe skin infections caused by MRSA.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have MRSA infections or are over the age of 11 may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing and treating severe MRSA infections, particularly in children.
How similar studies have performed: While the role of bacteriophages in bacterial infections is an emerging field, this specific investigation into CA-MRSA and its phage interactions is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- New York University School of Medicine — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ulrich, Robert James — New York University School of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Ulrich, Robert James
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.