Using viruses that target bacteria to treat urinary tract infections
Investigating phage therapy for the treatment of urinary tract infections
This study is looking at how special viruses called bacteriophages can help treat urinary tract infections caused by tough bacteria that don't respond to regular antibiotics, and it aims to find a new way to help people feel better and reduce the chances of getting UTIs again.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Baylor College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10817688 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of bacteriophages, which are viruses that specifically infect bacteria, as a potential treatment for urinary tract infections (UTIs) caused by antibiotic-resistant strains of E. coli. The study focuses on understanding how these phages can effectively target and eliminate bacteria that are hidden within the bladder and resistant to traditional antibiotics. By exploring the interactions between phages and bacteria, the research aims to develop a novel therapeutic approach that could reduce the recurrence of UTIs and improve patient outcomes. Patients may be involved in trials assessing the safety and effectiveness of phage therapy.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include women and older adults who frequently experience urinary tract infections, particularly those with antibiotic-resistant infections.
Not a fit: Patients with UTIs caused by non-E. coli bacteria or those who do not experience recurrent infections may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new treatment option for patients suffering from recurrent urinary tract infections, especially those resistant to antibiotics.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using phage therapy for bacterial infections, indicating potential for success in this novel application for urinary tract infections.
Where this research is happening
Houston, United States
- Baylor College of Medicine — Houston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zulk, Jacob Jeffrey — Baylor College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Zulk, Jacob Jeffrey
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.