How lipid-targeting T cells help protect against tuberculosis
The Role of Lipid-specific T cells in Mediating Protection Against M. tuberculosis
Researchers are identifying how T cells that recognize fatty parts of the TB bacterium protect people from tuberculosis.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11144039 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers use new lab tools to find and track T cells that recognize lipid (fat) components of the TB bacterium. They use lipid-loaded CD1 tetramers and a humanized CD1 transgenic mouse model to study these cells' behavior and function. Experiments include infecting mice, transferring T cells, and comparing responses after BCG vaccination to see which lipid antigens trigger protection. The team aims to reveal targets that could guide better TB vaccine design.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with active or latent tuberculosis, those who have received BCG vaccination, or people at high risk of TB exposure are most connected to this research.
Not a fit: People without TB exposure or those needing immediate clinical treatment are unlikely to see direct benefits from this lab- and animal-focused research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: This work could lead to new vaccines or immune therapies that protect more people from TB than the current BCG vaccine.
How similar studies have performed: Previous human and animal studies support a role for T cells in TB protection, but targeting lipid-specific CD1-restricted T cells is a newer approach enabled by recent tools and models.
Where this research is happening
Seattle, United States
- University of Washington — Seattle, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Seshadri, Chetan — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Seshadri, Chetan
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.