Understanding how Mycobacterium abscessus becomes vulnerable in lung-like environments
Official title: Functional Genomic Mapping of Gene Vulnerability in Mycobacterium abscessus Across Host-Relevant Environments
Funded at Rockefeller University · NIH-11336232 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A new project will map which genes make M. abscessus weaker under conditions like those in the lungs of people with cystic fibrosis or bronchiectasis, to guide better treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rockefeller University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2026 |
| Project end | May 31, 2031 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $667,659 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AI198133-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11336232 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Patients with chronic lung diseases such as cystic fibrosis or bronchiectasis who are affected by M. abscessus infections may benefit from future therapies targeting identified bacterial vulnerabilities.
✕Less likely to help
People not infected with M. abscessus or those whose condition is unrelated to this bacterium may not benefit directly.
What this research studies
This study uses a genome-wide CRISPR interference approach to identify gene vulnerabilities in M. abscessus under three lung-relevant conditions, including a synthetic CF sputum medium. It will validate key targets and explore how they work, and it will also examine gene requirements during macrophage infection to see which genes support intracellular survival. The work is designed to reveal condition-specific weaknesses in the bacteria and to establish methods that can be used broadly for similar pathogens. The goal is to lay the groundwork for new therapeutic strategies against chronic M. abscessus lung infections.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the research could reveal new drug targets that make M. abscessus more susceptible to treatment in lung infections.
How similar studies have gone: Previous work has shown that genome-scale CRISPRi screens can reveal essential bacterial vulnerabilities, supporting potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
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Rockefeller University
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rock, Jeremy Michael — Rockefeller University
- Study coordinator: Rock, Jeremy Michael
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.