Using a new approach to disrupt biofilms and enhance antibiotic treatment for chronic lung disease caused by Mycobacterium abscessus.
Official title: An unconventional regimen comprising biofilm disruptor as an adjunct with antibiotics to treat Mycobacterium abscessus chronic lung disease
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-11036805 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new way to help people with chronic lung disease caused by Mycobacterium abscessus by using a special treatment that breaks down protective barriers around the bacteria, making antibiotics work better, and it's for patients looking for improved options to manage their condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | June 9, 2025 |
| Project end | May 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $155,227 |
| NIH project number | 1R03AI188120-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11036805 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with chronic lung disease due to Mycobacterium abscessus who have not responded well to existing antibiotic treatments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with acute infections or those not infected with Mycobacterium abscessus may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a novel treatment strategy for chronic lung disease caused by Mycobacterium abscessus, which often leads to rapid lung function decline and currently has no FDA-approved therapies. The approach involves using a biofilm disruptor in conjunction with antibiotics to improve treatment efficacy. By targeting the protective biofilms that hinder antibiotic effectiveness, the research aims to enhance the penetration of antibiotics and potentially improve patient outcomes. Patients participating in this research may receive a combination of therapies designed to better manage their chronic condition.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatment options for patients suffering from chronic lung disease caused by Mycobacterium abscessus.
How similar studies have gone: While the approach of using biofilm disruptors in conjunction with antibiotics is innovative, similar strategies have shown promise in other bacterial infections, suggesting potential for success in this context.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lamichhane, Gyanu — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Lamichhane, Gyanu
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.