How mucus in the lungs affects tuberculosis infection
Official title: The impact of mucociliary clearance on Mycobacterium tuberculosis pathogenesis
Funded at University of Washington · NIH-10813043 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain protective substances in our lungs might affect the way tuberculosis develops, with the hope of finding new ways to treat and prevent the disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project start | March 21, 2023 |
| Project end | February 28, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $200,075 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI165961-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10813043 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of tuberculosis or those at high risk for infection due to underlying health conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not at risk for tuberculosis or those who have already been effectively treated may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of respiratory mucins, which are protective substances in the lungs, in the pathogenesis of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb). By studying how these mucins interact with Mtb before it infects lung cells, the research aims to uncover new insights into tuberculosis susceptibility and severity. The approach includes human genetic studies and experiments with small animal models to understand the mechanisms of mucin action. Ultimately, the goal is to develop better strategies for treating and preventing tuberculosis.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments and vaccines for tuberculosis, potentially reducing the disease's impact on patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of mucins in respiratory infections, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights into tuberculosis as well.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Washington
Seattle, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shah, Javeed Ali — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Shah, Javeed Ali
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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.