Understanding how Neisseria gonorrhoeae becomes resistant to antibiotics
Official title: Molecular mechanism of cephalosporin resistance of N. gonorrhoeae conferred by mutated PBP2
Funded at University of South Alabama · NIH-11037905 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain changes in a protein in the gonorrhea bacteria help it resist antibiotics, with the goal of finding better treatments for people with gonorrhea.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of South Alabama NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Mobile, United States) |
| Project start | March 10, 2022 |
| Project end | February 28, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $696,185 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI164794-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11037905 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals diagnosed with gonorrhea, particularly those with treatment-resistant infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have gonorrhea or those with infections that are not resistant to current antibiotics may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the molecular mechanisms behind antibiotic resistance in Neisseria gonorrhoeae, the bacteria responsible for gonorrhea. By focusing on mutated forms of penicillin-binding protein 2 (PBP2), the study aims to understand how these mutations affect the bacteria's ability to resist treatment with extended-spectrum cephalosporins like ceftriaxone. The research employs advanced structural analysis to explore the interactions between PBP2 and antibiotics, which could lead to the development of new treatment options. Patients with gonorrhea may benefit from improved therapies resulting from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of new antibiotics that effectively treat gonorrhea infections resistant to current medications.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in understanding antibiotic resistance mechanisms, but this specific investigation into PBP2 mutations represents a novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of South Alabama
Mobile, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Davies, Christopher — University of South Alabama
- Study coordinator: Davies, Christopher
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.