Using viruses to eliminate antibiotic-resistant bacteria in the gut
Mechanistic basis of bacteriophages for the decolonization of vancomycin resistant enterococci in the intestine
This study is looking at how special viruses called bacteriophages can help fight stubborn infections caused by bacteria that don't respond to common antibiotics, and it aims to find new ways to use these viruses to make treatments more effective for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-10935986 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how bacteriophages, which are viruses that infect bacteria, can be used to combat vancomycin-resistant enterococci in the intestines. The study focuses on understanding how bacteria develop resistance to these phages and how this resistance can lead to reduced virulence and increased susceptibility to antibiotics. By examining the interactions between phages and bacteria, the research aims to develop new therapeutic strategies that leverage these dynamics to treat persistent bacterial infections in patients.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with infections caused by vancomycin-resistant enterococci or those at high risk of such infections.
Not a fit: Patients with infections caused by bacteria that are not susceptible to phage therapy may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a novel treatment option for patients suffering from infections caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using bacteriophages as therapeutic agents against antibiotic-resistant bacteria, indicating potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
Aurora, UNITED STATES
- University of Colorado Denver — Aurora, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Duerkop, Breck a — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Duerkop, Breck a
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.