Investigating how specific receptors in lung immune cells affect tuberculosis
Official title: Macrophage NR4A nuclear receptors in tuberculosis pathogenesis
Funded at University of Texas Hlth Science Center · NIH-11020961 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Science Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Antonio, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $38,421 |
| NIH project number | 5F30AI176699-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11020961 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with tuberculosis or those at high risk of developing the disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have tuberculosis or are not at risk for the disease may not benefit from this research.
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.
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 gone: 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
-
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
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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.