Understanding how gut bacteria contribute to antibiotic resistance

Connecting the Spatiotemporal Organization of Gut Bacterial Communities to the Emergence and Spread of Antibiotic Resistance

NIH-funded research University of California-Irvine · NIH-11078672

This study is looking at how the bacteria in our gut can help spread antibiotic resistance, and it aims to find ways to change these bacteria to help stop that spread, which could lead to better treatments for patients dealing with antibiotic-resistant infections.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California-Irvine NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Irvine, United States)
Project IDNIH-11078672 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of gut bacterial communities in the development and spread of antibiotic resistance. By examining the physical structure and organization of these bacterial communities, the study aims to uncover how they influence the transmission of antibiotic-resistant traits. The approach combines synthetic biology and genetic manipulation to explore ways to alter these communities, potentially preventing the spread of resistant bacteria. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new strategies for managing antibiotic resistance.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced antibiotic treatments and may be at risk for antibiotic-resistant infections.

Not a fit: Patients who have not been exposed to antibiotics or those with no history of bacterial infections may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative methods for controlling antibiotic resistance, improving treatment options for patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in manipulating gut microbiota to combat antibiotic resistance, indicating that this approach could be effective.

Where this research is happening

Irvine, 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 2026-06-13 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.