Using dual-wavelength blue light to treat Staphylococcus aureus infections
Official title: Dual-Wavelength Blue Light Irradiation for Improved Treatment of Staphylococcus aureus Infections
Funded at Massachusetts General Hospital · NIH-10843888 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a new way to help treat infections caused by a tough germ called Staphylococcus aureus using special blue light, which might be a helpful option for patients who want an alternative to antibiotics.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | May 18, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $250,165 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI178585-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10843888 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus, particularly those who have not responded to conventional antibiotic treatments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with infections caused by bacteria other than Staphylococcus aureus may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a novel approach to treating infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus, a common and increasingly resistant bacterium. The study explores the use of dual-wavelength blue light irradiation, specifically 460 nm followed by 405 nm, to enhance the effectiveness of blue light therapy against these infections. By targeting the antioxidant properties of the bacteria, the researchers aim to improve the susceptibility of Staphylococcus aureus to treatment. Patients may benefit from this non-pharmacological method, which could provide an alternative to traditional antibiotics.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a new treatment option for patients suffering from antibiotic-resistant Staphylococcus aureus infections.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promise in using blue light therapy for bacterial infections, but this specific dual-wavelength approach is novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
-
Massachusetts General Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Dai, Tianhong — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Dai, Tianhong
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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.