Understanding how some bacteria become resistant to antibiotics
Project 1: Mechanisms, Dynamics, and Prediction of Heteroresistance
This study is looking at how some bacteria can survive antibiotics while most of their friends can't, and it's for anyone who wants to understand how we can better detect and treat infections caused by these tough bacteria.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11037949 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the phenomenon of heteroresistance in bacteria, where a small group of bacterial cells within a larger population can resist antibiotics while the majority cannot. By studying the mechanisms behind this resistance, the research aims to develop better detection methods and treatment strategies for infections caused by resistant bacteria. The approach includes laboratory experiments, mathematical modeling, and clinical studies to understand how these resistant subpopulations behave under antibiotic treatment. This knowledge could lead to more effective therapies and improved patient outcomes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include patients with infections caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria, particularly those infected with Acinetobacter baumannii.
Not a fit: Patients with infections caused by bacteria that do not exhibit heteroresistance may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for bacterial infections that are currently difficult to manage due to antibiotic resistance.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding antibiotic resistance mechanisms, but the specific focus on heteroresistance is still an emerging area of study.
Where this research is happening
Atlanta, United States
- Emory University — Atlanta, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Andersson, Dan — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Andersson, Dan
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 below.