Understanding how tuberculosis bacteria control gene expression and repair DNA

Molecular Mechanisms of Transcription Initiation and DNA Repair

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY · NIH-11036404

This study is looking at how the tuberculosis bacteria work and fix their DNA, with the goal of finding new ways to create antibiotics, especially for those tough strains that don't respond to current treatments, so we can help people who are affected by this serious disease.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorWASHINGTON UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SAINT LOUIS, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11036404 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the molecular pathways of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the bacteria responsible for tuberculosis, focusing on how it regulates gene expression and repairs its DNA. By studying transcription regulation and DNA repair mechanisms, the research aims to uncover new targets for antibiotic development, especially in light of rising drug-resistant strains. The approach includes both ensemble and single-molecule experiments, along with kinetic modeling, to understand how transcription factors interact with DNA. This work is crucial for developing new treatments for a disease that causes millions of infections and deaths each year.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals infected with Mycobacterium tuberculosis, particularly those with drug-resistant strains.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have tuberculosis or are not infected with Mycobacterium tuberculosis may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of new antibiotics that are effective against drug-resistant tuberculosis.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in targeting molecular mechanisms of bacterial pathogens, indicating potential for breakthroughs in tuberculosis treatment.

Where this research is happening

SAINT LOUIS, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.