A new diagnostic test for tuberculosis in HIV-infected children

Multiplexed Antigen-Specific Antibody Fc Profiling on a Chip for Point-of-Care Diagnosis of TB in HIV-infected Children

NIH-funded research Massachusetts General Hospital · NIH-10834976

This study is working on a new, easy-to-use test for tuberculosis in children, especially those with HIV, that doesn't require them to cough up samples, making it simpler to diagnose and treat TB in young kids.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMassachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-10834976 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a cost-effective diagnostic test for tuberculosis (TB) specifically designed for children, particularly those infected with HIV. The approach utilizes a novel biomarker-based method that analyzes non-sputum samples, making it easier to diagnose TB in young children who often cannot provide sputum samples. By examining the glycosylation patterns of antibodies specific to TB, the researchers aim to differentiate between active TB disease and latent TB infection, which has been a significant challenge in pediatric care. The goal is to create a point-of-care test that can be used in resource-limited settings, ultimately improving TB treatment and reducing mortality rates among affected children.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children under the age of 5 who are either infected with HIV or are HIV-exposed but uninfected.

Not a fit: Patients who are older than 21 years or those without any risk factors for TB or HIV may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a reliable and accessible diagnostic tool that significantly reduces TB-related deaths in HIV-infected children.

How similar studies have performed: While there have been challenges in developing effective pediatric TB diagnostics, recent advancements in antibody glycosylation analysis show promise, indicating that this approach could lead to successful outcomes.

Where this research is happening

Boston, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.