How tuberculosis interacts with airway cells
Official title: Interaction of Mycobacterium tuberculosis with upper airway mucosal cells
Funded at Ut Southwestern Medical Center · NIH-11111426 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the tuberculosis bacteria interacts with special cells in our airways that help our immune system fight infections, and it aims to find ways to improve prevention and treatment for tuberculosis.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ut Southwestern Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Dallas, United States) |
| Project start | June 10, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $707,176 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI184584-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11111426 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are at risk of tuberculosis infection or have been diagnosed with tuberculosis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not at risk for tuberculosis or have no history of exposure to the bacteria may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the tuberculosis bacteria, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, interacts with the cells lining the airway mucosa, which serve as the first line of defense against infections. The study focuses on specialized cells called M cells that help transport antigens from the mucosal surface to immune cells. By using various scientific techniques, including genetic and immunologic methods, the researchers aim to understand the role of these M cells in the immune response to tuberculosis. This knowledge could lead to better strategies for preventing and treating tuberculosis infections.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prevention and treatment strategies for tuberculosis, potentially reducing its global impact.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding immune responses to other pathogens, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights into tuberculosis as well.
Where this research is happening
-
Ut Southwestern Medical Center
Dallas, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shiloh, Michael — Ut Southwestern Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Shiloh, Michael
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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.