How the body's cell-cleaning system fights tuberculosis in people with HIV
Pattern Recognition Receptors and Autophagy in Mtb Control in AIDS
This work looks at how the cell-cleanup process called autophagy and immune sensors help control tuberculosis (TB) in people living with HIV/AIDS.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R37 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of New Mexico Health Scis Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Albuquerque, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11318957 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers are studying how Mycobacterium tuberculosis damages cells and how the body's autophagy machinery responds, focusing on immune sensors called pattern recognition receptors and a human autophagy protein called IRGM. The team uses laboratory models and human-derived materials to map the molecular steps that trigger or block autophagy when TB infects cells. By understanding these signals, they aim to identify targets that could be turned into adjunct treatments to reduce TB growth, inflammation, and long-term lung damage after antibiotic therapy. The project links basic cell biology to human TB disease with the goal of guiding future therapies for people with HIV who are at high risk of TB complications.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People living with HIV who have active TB, a recent history of TB, or are at high risk for TB would be the most relevant population for this research and for future trials informed by it.
Not a fit: People without TB or HIV, and anyone needing immediate TB treatment, are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this laboratory-focused work right away.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to new therapies that boost the body's own cell-cleaning response to help control TB and reduce inflammation and lasting lung damage in people with HIV.
How similar studies have performed: Laboratory and preclinical studies have shown that autophagy can help control TB, but translating those findings into proven clinical treatments remains largely unproven.
Where this research is happening
Albuquerque, United States
- University of New Mexico Health Scis Ctr — Albuquerque, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Deretic, Vojo P — University of New Mexico Health Scis Ctr
- Study coordinator: Deretic, Vojo P
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.