Understanding how Staphylococcus aureus bacteria survive antibiotic treatment

Developing a single cell resolution understanding of pathogenesis and antibiotic tolerance in Staphylococcus aureus

NIH-funded research University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston · NIH-10723906

This study is looking at how some Staphylococcus aureus bacteria can survive antibiotic treatments while others can't, which could help us find better ways to treat infections caused by this germ.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Houston, United States)
Project IDNIH-10723906 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the complex behaviors of Staphylococcus aureus, a bacterium that can cause serious infections and often develops resistance to antibiotics. By using advanced techniques like single cell RNA sequencing, the study aims to uncover why some bacteria survive antibiotic treatments while others do not. This understanding could lead to better strategies for treating infections by targeting the specific mechanisms that allow certain bacterial populations to tolerate antibiotics. The research focuses on the genetic and environmental factors that contribute to this phenomenon.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus, particularly those who have experienced treatment failures.

Not a fit: Patients with infections caused by other types of bacteria or those who do not have antibiotic-resistant infections may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for infections caused by antibiotic-resistant Staphylococcus aureus.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in using single cell RNA sequencing to understand bacterial behavior, indicating that this approach has potential for uncovering new insights.

Where this research is happening

Houston, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.