Understanding how viral genes affect drug resistance in mycobacteria
Official title: Supplement Request: Investigating the role of prophage encoded gene products on mycobacterial gene expression and intrinsic antibiotic resistance
Funded at University of Maine Orono · NIH-10795260 · 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, and it hopes to find new ways to treat tough infections that don’t respond to standard treatments.
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 | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $29,038 |
| NIH project number | 3R15GM148943-01S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10795260 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients with drug-resistant mycobacterial infections, particularly those with cystic fibrosis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-mycobacterial infections or those who do not have antibiotic-resistant strains 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 exploring how these prophages influence the bacteria's response to antibiotics and their survival in immune cells, 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 still being explored, similar research has shown promise in understanding bacterial resistance mechanisms.
Where this research is happening
-
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.