Using targeted liposomes to fight harmful mycobacterial infections
Official title: Targeted pan-antibacterial liposomes to control pathogenic mycobacteria
Funded at University of Georgia · NIH-10897712 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new way to deliver medicine directly to tough bacteria that cause infections, which could help people with hard-to-treat illnesses use less medication while still getting better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Georgia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Athens, United States) |
| Project start | August 2, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $226,500 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI173492-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10897712 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with latent or active tuberculosis or other mycobacterial infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with infections caused by non-mycobacterial pathogens or those who do not have a history of antibiotic-resistant infections may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing DectiSomes, which are specialized lipid nanoparticles designed to deliver anti-infective drugs directly to pathogenic mycobacteria. By coating these nanoparticles with receptors that specifically target mycobacterial cells, the research aims to significantly reduce the amount of medication needed to effectively combat infections. The approach is particularly relevant for treating multidrug-resistant strains of mycobacteria, which pose a significant health threat globally. The research will involve testing these targeted liposomes against various pathogenic mycobacterial species to evaluate their effectiveness in both laboratory and animal models.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for patients suffering from serious mycobacterial infections, potentially reducing the duration and dosage of antibiotic therapy.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown success with similar targeted liposome approaches in treating fungal infections, suggesting potential for success in mycobacterial infections as well.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Georgia
Athens, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Meagher, Richard Brian — University of Georgia
- Study coordinator: Meagher, Richard Brian
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
BRD4 and NIPBL work together to control facial bone development
A study in mice and cell models will explore how BRD4 and NIPBL work together to control how genes are turned on in facial development, which could clarify causes of craniofacial disorders.
-
Sulfated glycosaminoglycan hydrogels to protect brain volume after traumatic injury
A new implantable gel made from specially sulfated sugars may help prevent brain shrinkage and improve function after a serious brain injury.
-
Understanding how Kaposi’s sarcoma virus switches on late genes during infection
Scientists are studying how the virus causing Kaposi’s sarcoma turns on late genes when its DNA copies itself, which could reveal new ways to treat cancer in people with AIDS.
-
Understanding how cells control signals and adhesion with the secretory pathway
A funded NIH project looks at how the cell’s secretory system shapes signals, receptors, and attachment to the outside of the cell, which can influence many human diseases.
-
AI-powered math and machine learning for bioscience and drug discovery
A broad NIH grant supports using advanced math and AI to better predict viral variants and aid drug discovery, with the goal of helping patients by accelerating pandemic response.
-
AI-driven platform to predict vaccine-escape variants and design mutation-proof antibodies
An AI-powered approach aims to anticipate SARS-CoV-2 variants that may dodge vaccines and to create antibodies that stay effective.
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.