Understanding how rapid evolution affects diseases and antibiotic resistance
Official title: Population genetics of rapid evolutionary processes
Funded at Cornell University · NIH-11005289 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how germs, like those causing Covid and antibiotic resistance, change quickly and how we can use new technology to better understand and control these changes, which could help create better treatments for everyone.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Cornell University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ithaca, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $346,820 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM152242-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11005289 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals affected by antibiotic-resistant infections or those at risk of emerging infectious diseases.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with stable, non-evolving conditions may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the rapid evolutionary processes that contribute to challenges like antibiotic resistance and the emergence of new Covid variants. By utilizing advanced CRISPR gene drive technology, the researchers aim to develop new population genetic models and computational tools to predict the outcomes of gene drives. This approach seeks to identify critical features that influence gene drive effectiveness and explore methods to confine these drives to specific populations. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to more effective treatments and interventions for diseases caused by rapidly evolving pathogens.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative strategies for controlling diseases and antibiotic resistance, ultimately improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using CRISPR technology for gene drives, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Cornell University
Ithaca, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Messer, Philipp W — Cornell University
- Study coordinator: Messer, Philipp W
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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.