Mycobacterial Epigenetics: Investigating the impact of DNA methylation on antibiotic tolerance and persistence
The following grant was awarded by, is supported by, is administered by or is in partnership with the Fogarty International Center at the U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH).
Funding Fogarty Program
Emerging Global Leader
Project Information in NIH RePORTER
Mycobacterial Epigenetics: Investigating the impact of DNA methylation on antibiotic tolerance and persistence
Principal Institution
Stellenbosch University
Principal Investigator(s) (PI)
Kriel, Nastassja Lise
Project Contact Information
Email:
nastassja@sun.ac.za
Year(s) Awarded
2024-2029
Country
South Africa
Project Description
Mycobacterium tuberculosis population heterogeneity, including persister cell (bacteria which survive antibiotics) formation, can prevent effective therapeutic treatment, resulting in extensive treatment duration and recurrent tuberculosis infection. Triggered persister formation in response to environmental stress may be facilitated through DNA methylation (a chemical reaction in which a small molecule called a methyl group gets added to DNA) of the
M. tuberculosis genome. This project aims to demonstrate a role for DNA methylation in the
M. tuberculosis stress response and in promoting population heterogeneity, including the formation of a persister subpopulation.
Related World Regions / Countries
Related Global Health Research Topics