Mycobacterium abscessus (Mab) can cause chronic lung infections in people with cystic fibrosis. Mab is a highly drug-resistant bacterium and can exist in different forms: actively growing cells, persistent cells or dormant cells. The latter two forms hinder the therapeutic success of antibiotics. A therapeutic approach capable of targeting even these few cells could drastically reduce therapy, control relapses, and even limit the development of drug-resistant infection.

This project, a continuation of the previous FFC#6/2022, will focus on persistent forms of Mab with a two-pronged approach: understanding how these cells are able to survive a drug concentration capable of killing most bacteria, and testing which known drugs these cells are most susceptible to. 

To achieve this, researchers will analyze the bacterial RNA to identify genes important for persistence and their role in the response to certain drugs. Tests will be conducted under different conditions, including in cultures,  in biofilm and inside host cells. Finally, the activity of various drugs against persistent bacteria under these conditions will be assessed.

A better understanding of these highly resistant subpopulations is essential to identify new drug targets and optimize the use of existing antibiotics.