Understanding how to overcome antibiotic resistance in a specific bacteria.
Official title: Dissecting the molecular targets to overcome beta-lactam resistance in M. abscessus complex
Funded at Hackensack University Medical Center · NIH-11132405 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking for better ways to treat tough lung infections caused by a bacteria called Mycobacterium abscessus, especially for people with cystic fibrosis or those who have had transplants, by using new techniques to make antibiotics work better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Hackensack University Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Hackensack, United States) |
| Project start | June 4, 2025 |
| Project end | May 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $901,706 |
| NIH project number | 2R01AI141805-05A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11132405 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with pulmonary infections caused by Mycobacterium abscessus, particularly those who are immunocompromised or have chronic lung diseases.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with infections caused by other types of bacteria that are not part of the Mycobacterium abscessus complex may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on tackling the growing problem of antibiotic resistance in the Mycobacterium abscessus complex, which causes serious lung infections, particularly in vulnerable populations like cystic fibrosis and transplant patients. The team is using advanced techniques such as genetic screening and CRISPR editing to identify molecular targets that can enhance the effectiveness of beta-lactam antibiotics. By studying these targets in both laboratory and animal models, the researchers aim to develop more effective treatment strategies for patients suffering from chronic infections caused by this resistant bacteria.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment options for patients with antibiotic-resistant infections, potentially increasing cure rates.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using beta-lactam combinations to treat resistant infections, indicating that this approach may lead to significant advancements in treatment.
Where this research is happening
-
Hackensack University Medical Center
Hackensack, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kreiswirth, Barry Neal — Hackensack University Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Kreiswirth, Barry Neal
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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.