Investigating a new vaccine approach for tuberculosis using a modified bacterium
Official title: Esx5 secretome in TB and TB-HIV pathogenesis and immunity
Funded at Albert Einstein College of Medicine · NIH-11187348 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a modified version of the tuberculosis germ to see how it can help create a better vaccine for TB, which could be really helpful for people at risk of this disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Albert Einstein College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Bronx, United States) |
| Project start | May 22, 2025 |
| Project end | April 30, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $820,246 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AI192152-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11187348 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk of tuberculosis infection, including those in high-prevalence areas or with compromised immune systems.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are already infected with tuberculosis or those who have a history of severe allergic reactions to vaccines may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis causes tuberculosis (TB) by studying a specific genetic modification that enhances its ability to act as a vaccine. The researchers have created a mutant strain of the bacterium that lacks a key transport system, which is believed to secrete proteins that contribute to disease. By analyzing this mutant, they aim to identify the proteins it secretes and understand their roles in both disease progression and immune response. This could lead to the development of a more effective vaccine against TB.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a new and effective vaccine for tuberculosis, potentially reducing the incidence of this serious disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using genetically modified strains of bacteria as vaccines, indicating that this approach could be viable.
Where this research is happening
-
Albert Einstein College of Medicine
Bronx, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jacobs, William Robert — Albert Einstein College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Jacobs, William Robert
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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.