A new RNA test to diagnose antibiotic resistance in tuberculosis.

An RNA Nanosensor for the Diagnosis of Antibiotic Resistance in M. Tuberculosis

['FUNDING_R01'] · HARVARD MEDICAL SCHOOL · NIH-10928887

This study is working on a new, quick test that uses RNA to help doctors find out if tuberculosis bacteria are resistant to antibiotics, making it easier and faster to choose the right treatment for patients.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorHARVARD MEDICAL SCHOOL (nih funded)
Locations1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10928887 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a novel RNA-based diagnostic tool to identify antibiotic resistance in Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb), a major global health threat. Current methods for diagnosing resistance are slow and costly, often relying on bacterial culture, which can take weeks. The proposed RNA nanosensor aims to provide rapid and accurate results without the need for extensive genetic knowledge, making it easier for healthcare providers to determine the most effective treatment options for patients. By leveraging existing data, this approach seeks to enhance the sensitivity of resistance detection and broaden the range of antibiotics tested.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with tuberculosis who may have antibiotic-resistant strains of the bacteria.

Not a fit: Patients with non-tuberculosis infections or those who do not have a confirmed diagnosis of tuberculosis may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to faster and more accurate diagnoses of antibiotic resistance in tuberculosis, improving treatment outcomes for patients.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in developing rapid diagnostic tests for antibiotic resistance, but this RNA-based approach is relatively novel.

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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.