Mapping immune cell organization in tuberculosis granulomas

Deep spatial immune profiling of granulomas and M. tuberculosis adaptation to disease and treatment

NIH-funded research Emory University · NIH-11104355

This study is looking at how the way immune cells are organized in certain structures called granulomas affects how well the body fights off tuberculosis, with the goal of finding better ways to treat the infection.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionEmory University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Atlanta, United States)
Project IDNIH-11104355 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how the arrangement and communication of immune cells within granulomas affect the body's response to Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) infection. By creating a detailed geospatial map of granulomas, the study aims to understand how these structures can either help contain the infection or allow it to progress. The researchers will use advanced imaging techniques to analyze the immune environment and bacterial behavior in different granuloma types, providing insights into how Mtb adapts during treatment. This work could lead to improved strategies for managing tuberculosis.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with pulmonary tuberculosis who are undergoing treatment.

Not a fit: Patients with non-tuberculous mycobacterial infections or those without active tuberculosis may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for tuberculosis by enhancing our understanding of how to manipulate the immune response.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using advanced imaging techniques to study immune responses, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Atlanta, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions bacterial disease treatmentbacterial infectious disease treatment
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.