Understanding how viral genes affect antibiotic resistance in mycobacteria
Official title: Investigating the role of prophage encoded gene products on mycobacterial gene expression and intrinsic antibiotic resistance
Funded at University of Maine Orono · NIH-10579008 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain viral genes in a type of bacteria called Mycobacterium abscessus affect its ability to resist antibiotics, which is important for people with cystic fibrosis, as it could help find better treatments for tough infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Maine Orono NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Orono, United States) |
| Project start | September 20, 2022 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2022 |
| Award (this year) | $432,274 |
| NIH project number | 1R15GM148943-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10579008 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit include patients with cystic fibrosis who are infected with Mycobacterium abscessus or other drug-resistant mycobacteria.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with infections caused by non-mycobacterial pathogens or those without antibiotic resistance issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of prophages, which are viral genes integrated into the genomes of mycobacteria, in regulating antibiotic resistance and gene expression. The focus is on Mycobacterium abscessus, a significant pathogen in cystic fibrosis patients, where traditional treatments often fail. By examining how these prophages influence the bacteria's response to antibiotics and their survival mechanisms, the research aims to uncover new strategies to combat drug-resistant infections. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to improved treatment options for resistant mycobacterial infections.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating drug-resistant mycobacterial infections.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific role of prophages in mycobacterial antibiotic resistance is a relatively novel area of investigation, similar approaches have shown promise in understanding bacterial resistance mechanisms in other contexts.
Where this research is happening
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University of Maine Orono
Orono, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Molloy, Sally — University of Maine Orono
- Study coordinator: Molloy, Sally
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.