How immune cells in the lungs recognize and respond to tuberculosis bacteria
Official title: Innate sensing of M. tuberculosis by alveolar macrophages
Funded at University of Massachusetts Amherst · NIH-10880813 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how certain immune cells in your lungs react when they encounter the bacteria that causes tuberculosis, with the goal of finding better ways to treat and prevent the disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Massachusetts Amherst NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Hadley, United States) |
| Project start | August 15, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $447,009 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AI177653-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10880813 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old, particularly those who have been exposed to tuberculosis or are at risk of infection.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not at risk for tuberculosis or those who have already been effectively treated for the disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how alveolar macrophages, the immune cells in the lungs, detect and respond to Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb), the bacteria that causes tuberculosis (TB). The study focuses on the early immune responses that occur after Mtb is inhaled, particularly how these cells can either help or hinder the body's ability to fight the infection. By understanding the mechanisms of immune recognition and response, the research aims to identify new strategies for improving TB treatment and prevention. The approach includes examining the cellular and molecular changes in macrophages after exposure to Mtb and how these changes affect the overall immune response.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies and vaccines that enhance the immune response against tuberculosis, potentially reducing the incidence and severity of the disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding immune responses to tuberculosis, indicating that this approach could lead to significant advancements in TB treatment.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Massachusetts Amherst
Hadley, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rothchild, Alissa Chen — University of Massachusetts Amherst
- Study coordinator: Rothchild, Alissa Chen
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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.