Investigating how specific receptors in lung immune cells affect tuberculosis
Macrophage NR4A nuclear receptors in tuberculosis pathogenesis
['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] · UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS HLTH SCIENCE CENTER · NIH-11020961
This study is looking at how certain immune cells in the lungs help fight tuberculosis and how specific proteins might help them work better, with the hope of finding new ways to treat tough cases of the disease.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS HLTH SCIENCE CENTER (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SAN ANTONIO, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11020961 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research focuses on alveolar macrophages, which are essential immune cells in the lungs that help clear pathogens like Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M.tb). The study aims to understand how these cells respond to tuberculosis infection and how certain nuclear receptors, known as NR4A, influence their ability to manage inflammation and lipid uptake. By exploring these cellular pathways, the research seeks to identify new therapeutic targets that could improve treatment for tuberculosis, especially in cases where the bacteria have become drug-resistant.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with tuberculosis or those at high risk of developing the disease.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have tuberculosis or are not at risk for the disease may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that enhance the immune response against tuberculosis, potentially saving lives and improving treatment outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting similar cellular pathways in other infectious diseases, suggesting that this approach could be effective for tuberculosis as well.
Where this research is happening
SAN ANTONIO, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS HLTH SCIENCE CENTER — SAN ANTONIO, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: SIMPER, JAN — UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS HLTH SCIENCE CENTER
- Study coordinator: SIMPER, JAN
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.
Conditions: Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease, atherosclerotic disease, atherosclerotic vascular disease