Investigating how M. tuberculosis survives and how to disrupt its persistence
Chemical genetics of M. tuberculosis DosRST signaling and persistence
This study is looking for new ways to help treat tuberculosis by finding drugs that can stop the bacteria from hiding and surviving in the body, which could make treatment faster and help prevent drug-resistant strains.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Michigan State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (East Lansing, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10897950 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how the bacteria that cause tuberculosis (M. tuberculosis) can survive in a dormant state, making treatment difficult. The team is exploring a specific signaling system in the bacteria called DosRST, which helps it adapt to harsh conditions in the body. By screening a large library of chemical compounds, they aim to find new drugs that can inhibit this signaling and potentially shorten the lengthy treatment required for tuberculosis. This approach could lead to more effective therapies that reduce the risk of drug-resistant strains.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with active tuberculosis or those at high risk of developing the disease.
Not a fit: Patients with non-tuberculosis infections or those who have already developed multidrug-resistant tuberculosis may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to shorter and more effective treatments for tuberculosis, reducing the burden of this infectious disease.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in targeting bacterial persistence mechanisms, suggesting that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
East Lansing, United States
- Michigan State University — East Lansing, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Abramovitch, Robert B — Michigan State University
- Study coordinator: Abramovitch, Robert B
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.