How mitochondria affect immune responses during tuberculosis infection
Mitochondria as crucial regulators of innate immune outcomes during Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection
This study is looking at how the tiny powerhouses in our cells, called mitochondria, affect our immune system's response to tuberculosis, aiming to help people understand how mitochondrial health can influence how well we fight off this infection.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11115646 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of mitochondria in regulating immune responses to Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) infection. It aims to understand how mitochondrial damage caused by the bacteria and genetic mutations in host mitochondria influence the body's innate immune reactions. The study utilizes both laboratory models and mouse models to explore these interactions, focusing on the release of specific molecules from mitochondria that can activate immune pathways. By examining these mechanisms, the research seeks to fill a critical gap in our understanding of how mitochondrial health impacts infection outcomes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of tuberculosis infection or those at high risk for developing tuberculosis.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have a history of tuberculosis or are not at risk for the disease may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for improving immune responses in patients with tuberculosis.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific focus on mitochondrial regulation during tuberculosis is novel, related research has shown that understanding mitochondrial function can significantly impact immune responses in other infectious diseases.
Where this research is happening
Nashville, United States
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center — Nashville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Watson, Robert Owen — Vanderbilt University Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Watson, Robert Owen
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.