Using mRNA technology to deliver targeted antimicrobial treatments
Official title: Harnessing mRNA Vaccine Technology for Precision Antimicrobial Delivery
Funded at Phase Genomics, INC. · NIH-11186644 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new way to fight tough bacterial infections, especially those that don't respond to regular antibiotics, by using a special technology that helps your body make proteins to target and eliminate harmful bacteria.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 1 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Phase Genomics, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project start | April 22, 2025 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $299,163 |
| NIH project number | 1R43AI192163-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11186644 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from infections caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with infections caused by non-bacterial pathogens or those who do not have antibiotic-resistant infections may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a novel approach to combat antimicrobial resistance (AMR) by utilizing mRNA technology to deliver endolysin proteins that specifically target harmful bacteria. The study focuses on developing a delivery system that uses self-replicating mRNA encapsulated in lipid nanoparticles, which can produce these proteins in the body for an extended period. By targeting specific bacteria like vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecium (VRE), this method aims to provide a more effective alternative to traditional antibiotics, which often lead to resistance. Patients may benefit from a more effective treatment option that can clear bacterial infections without contributing to resistance.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide patients with a new, effective treatment for antibiotic-resistant infections.
How similar studies have gone: While the use of mRNA technology in vaccines has shown significant success, the application of this technology for antimicrobial delivery is relatively novel and untested.
Where this research is happening
-
Phase Genomics, INC.
Seattle, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Liachko, Ivan — Phase Genomics, INC.
- Study coordinator: Liachko, Ivan
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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.