Using gallium nitrate to treat lung infections in cystic fibrosis patients.

A Phase 1b, Multi-center Study of IV Gallium Nitrate in Patients with Cystic Fibrosis who are colonized with Nontuberculosis Mycobacterium (The ABATE Study).

NIH-funded research Seattle Children's Hospital · NIH-10237132

This study is looking at whether giving cystic fibrosis patients an intravenous treatment called gallium nitrate can help fight off certain tough bacteria that can cause infections, with the hope of improving their overall treatment.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionSeattle Children's Hospital NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Seattle, United States)
Project IDNIH-10237132 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the use of intravenous gallium nitrate as a potential treatment for cystic fibrosis patients who are infected with nontuberculous mycobacteria, particularly Mycobacterium avium complex and M. abscessus complex. The study aims to explore how gallium can disrupt the iron metabolism of these bacteria, potentially leading to improved treatment outcomes. By targeting the iron vulnerability of these pathogens, the research seeks to provide a novel therapeutic approach that could enhance the effectiveness of existing treatments. Patients will be monitored for their response to gallium nitrate and any associated side effects.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are cystic fibrosis patients who are colonized with nontuberculous mycobacteria.

Not a fit: Patients without cystic fibrosis or those not colonized with nontuberculous mycobacteria may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for lung infections in cystic fibrosis patients, reducing treatment failure rates.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of gallium in treating infections is a novel approach, there is emerging evidence suggesting its potential effectiveness in similar contexts.

Where this research is happening

Seattle, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.