Investigating how glutathione levels affect tuberculosis in the brain
Official title: Glutathione depletion in the CNS and its effects on Mtb infection
Funded at Western University of Health Sciences · NIH-10885593 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a natural substance called glutathione can help improve treatment for people with Tuberculous Meningitis, a serious brain infection caused by tuberculosis, by boosting their immune system to better fight the bacteria.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Western University of Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pomona, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2019 |
| Project end | March 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $429,000 |
| NIH project number | 2R15HL143545-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10885593 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Tuberculous Meningitis who may not be responding well to current treatments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other forms of tuberculosis or those without a diagnosis of Tuberculous Meningitis may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on Tuberculous Meningitis (TBM), a severe form of tuberculosis that affects the brain and is linked to high rates of illness and death. It examines the role of glutathione, a crucial antioxidant, in managing this condition. The study aims to explore how restoring glutathione levels can enhance immune responses and improve treatment outcomes for patients with TBM. By combining glutathione with specific cytokines, the research seeks to boost the body's ability to fight the Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for patients suffering from Tuberculous Meningitis.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in enhancing immune responses through glutathione restoration, indicating potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Western University of Health Sciences
Pomona, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Venketaraman, Vishwanath — Western University of Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Venketaraman, Vishwanath
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.