Using antimalarial drugs to treat lung infections caused by certain bacteria
Repurposing antimalarials for the treatment of NTM infections
This study is looking at whether some antimalarial drugs can be used to help people with lung infections caused by nontuberculous mycobacteria, especially those with conditions like cystic fibrosis and bronchiectasis, by understanding how these bacteria survive and resist current treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Colorado State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Fort Collins, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11171467 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the potential of repurposing antimalarial medications to treat pulmonary nontuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) infections, which are increasingly affecting individuals with lung conditions like cystic fibrosis and bronchiectasis. The study focuses on understanding how these bacteria survive in the body and develop resistance to current treatments. By exploring the metabolic adaptations of these pathogens, the research aims to identify new therapeutic strategies that could enhance treatment effectiveness for affected patients.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with pulmonary nontuberculous mycobacterial infections, particularly those with underlying lung conditions.
Not a fit: Patients with non-pulmonary infections or those without structural lung conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatment options for patients suffering from difficult-to-treat lung infections.
How similar studies have performed: While the approach of repurposing existing drugs is common, the specific application of antimalarials for NTM infections is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
Fort Collins, United States
- Colorado State University — Fort Collins, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jackson, Mary — Colorado State University
- Study coordinator: Jackson, Mary
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 below.