Understanding how non-tuberculous mycobacteria resist antibiotics
Official title: Molecular mechanisms of inherent drug resistance in non-tuberculous mycobacteria
Funded at Harvard School of Public Health · NIH-10932891 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain germs, like Mycobacterium abscessus and Mycobacterium avium, can resist antibiotics, so we can find better ways to help people with tough infections get the treatment they need.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Harvard School of Public Health NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | September 22, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $768,176 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI179642-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10932891 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients with chronic infections caused by non-tuberculous mycobacteria who have experienced limited success with current antibiotic therapies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with infections caused by other types of bacteria or those who do not have chronic infections may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms that allow non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTMs) to resist antibiotic treatment, which is a significant challenge for patients with chronic infections. The team will utilize advanced tissue culture models and genetic techniques to identify specific genes and pathways that contribute to this resistance. By understanding these mechanisms, the researchers aim to find ways to make these bacteria more susceptible to existing antibiotics, potentially improving treatment outcomes for patients. The study focuses on Mycobacterium abscessus and the Mycobacterium avium complex, which are common causes of infection.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for patients suffering from chronic infections caused by non-tuberculous mycobacteria.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in identifying mechanisms of antibiotic resistance in other bacterial infections, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Harvard School of Public Health
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rubin, Eric J. — Harvard School of Public Health
- Study coordinator: Rubin, Eric J.
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.