Finding hidden TB by mapping transmission hotspots in South Africa
Targeting TB transmission hotspots to find undiagnosed TB in South Africa: a genomic, geospatial and modeling study (TARGET- TB)
['FUNDING_R01'] · COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES · NIH-11084402
This project uses genetic, location, and computer modeling tools to find people with undiagnosed tuberculosis in high-transmission South African communities.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (NEW YORK, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11084402 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
If you join, teams will map where TB spreads by combining TB genetics, where people live and move, and computer models to pinpoint hotspots. They will use blood RNA markers and sputum testing to look for active and subclinical TB, including people without symptoms. Screening will be focused in neighborhoods and groups identified as high-risk so testing can reach more undiagnosed cases. The goal is to use these data to guide targeted outreach and quicker treatment.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People living in or near identified TB transmission hotspots in South Africa, including those who do not have TB symptoms, would be the best candidates to participate.
Not a fit: People who live outside the study areas or who are already diagnosed and on effective TB treatment are unlikely to directly benefit from enrolling in this project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could find and treat people who have TB but do not yet know it, reducing transmission and improving health in affected communities.
How similar studies have performed: Earlier studies show blood RNA markers and targeted screening can uncover hidden TB, but combining genomics, geospatial mapping, and predictive modeling for hotspot-based case finding is a newer approach.
Where this research is happening
NEW YORK, UNITED STATES
- COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES — NEW YORK, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: MATHEMA, BARUN — COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES
- Study coordinator: MATHEMA, BARUN
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.