Understanding how Staphylococcus aureus bacteria behave after skin infections and antibiotic treatment
Genomics of S. Aureus Colonization after Initial and Recurrent Skin Infections and the Impact of Antibiotics
This study is looking at how a common germ called Staphylococcus aureus, especially the tough-to-treat MRSA type, behaves in people who keep getting skin infections, so we can better understand who is most at risk and how to help them stay healthy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10468070 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the behavior of Staphylococcus aureus, a common bacterium that can cause skin infections, particularly focusing on its methicillin-resistant strains (MRSA). The study aims to identify which patients are at high risk for recurrent infections by analyzing genetic changes in MRSA using whole genome sequencing. Over the course of a year, researchers will collect samples from 400 individuals at three different body sites to track how MRSA evolves and responds to antibiotic treatment. This information could help tailor prevention strategies for those most at risk of recurrent infections.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced skin infections caused by MRSA.
Not a fit: Patients who have not had a history of MRSA infections or those without skin infections may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing recurrent skin infections in patients colonized with MRSA.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research using whole genome sequencing has shown promise in understanding bacterial evolution and infection recurrence, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- University of Pennsylvania — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: David, Michael Zdenek — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: David, Michael Zdenek
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.