RNA-Based Strategies to Mitigate Antibiotic Resistance

Inspiration

The accelerating rise of antibiotic-resistant infections threatens to reverse decades of medical progress. Traditional drug development has slowed, while resistant bacteria spread unchecked. Inspired by the rapid advances of RNA technologies during the COVID-19 pandemic, I wanted to explore how RNA’s adaptability and precision could be repurposed to fight antimicrobial resistance.

What it does

My project outlines RNA-based therapeutic strategies—such as antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs), CRISPR interference (CRISPRi), riboswitches, and RNA vaccines—that directly target bacterial resistance genes and virulence factors. Instead of simply killing bacteria, these approaches disable resistance mechanisms, restoring the effectiveness of existing antibiotics.

How I built it

I synthesized insights from microbiology, synthetic biology, and molecular medicine literature to design a framework for RNA antimicrobials. I mapped how each strategy could be applied, explored delivery systems like nanoparticles and bacteriophages, and developed an implementation pathway from lab discovery through clinical trials.

Challenges I ran into • Delivering RNA molecules across bacterial cell walls. • Ensuring stability of RNA in harsh environments. • Balancing efficacy with cost and accessibility in global health contexts. • Addressing regulatory uncertainties around RNA-based antimicrobials.

Accomplishments that I’m proud of • Developing a comprehensive white paper that consolidates multiple RNA strategies into a unified solution against AMR. • Identifying specific high-priority resistance genes (e.g., blaNDM-1, mcr-1) as early targets. • Highlighting pathways for integrating RNA therapies with existing antibiotic regimens.

What I learned

I learned that RNA is more than a vaccine tool—it’s a versatile therapeutic platform that can be adapted to microbial systems. Tackling AMR requires not just scientific innovation, but interdisciplinary collaboration across biology, engineering, medicine, and policy.

What’s next for RNA-Based Strategies to Mitigate Antibiotic Resistance

My next steps include designing RNA prototypes targeting specific resistance genes, testing delivery via nanoparticles or phages, and developing collaborations with labs advancing RNA therapeutics. I also aim to advocate for global funding and regulatory pathways that accelerate the safe translation of RNA-based antimicrobials into real-world use.

Built With

• docs
• google
• google-drive
• research