How losing SIRT3 harms mitochondria in TB infections
Official title: Defining the mechanisms linking sirtuin (SIRT) 3 depletion with mitochondrial dysfunction in TB
Funded at Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester · NIH-11453766 · Data updated 2026-11-12
Researchers are studying how weakening of a mitochondrial regulator called SIRT3 may contribute to worse cellular energy and stress in tuberculosis.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Worcester, United States) |
| Project start | August 18, 2026 |
| Project end | July 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $209,375 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AI196535-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11453766 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates are individuals with active or latent TB or preclinical models showing TB-related mitochondrial dysfunction, with availability for translational follow-up.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without TB or related mitochondrial dysfunction are unlikely to benefit directly.
What this research studies
This project looks at how Mycobacterium tuberculosis affects mitochondria in immune cells and causes harmful signals to be released. It focuses on the role of SIRT3, a protein that helps mitochondria function and manage redox balance, and how its reduction may lead to mitochondrial dysfunction during TB infection. By examining the pathways that connect SIRT3 depletion to damaged mitochondria and reactive oxygen species, the study aims to identify potential targets for host-directed therapies in TB. The work uses established models to explore the mechanisms at play and how they might be manipulated to improve patient outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could uncover new targets to bolster mitochondrial function and reduce harmful inflammation in TB patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous findings suggest SIRT3-related mitochondrial regulation impacts cellular responses to TB-like stress, supporting potential benefit for targeted therapies.
Where this research is happening
-
Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester
Worcester, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Smulan, Lorissa Joy — Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester
- Study coordinator: Smulan, Lorissa Joy
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.