Quick blood test for tuberculosis detection using advanced technology
Official title: Rapid Detection of TB from Blood using Cell-Free DNA and CRISPR
Funded at University of California, San Diego · NIH-10889086 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on a quick and affordable blood test to help diagnose tuberculosis (TB) by finding the bacteria that cause it, making it easier for everyone, especially kids and people with HIV, to get the right care.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project start | July 17, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $739,826 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI174964-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10889086 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals of all ages suspected of having active tuberculosis, particularly those who are difficult to test using traditional methods, such as children and people living with HIV.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have tuberculosis or those with conditions that do not affect TB diagnosis may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to develop a rapid and cost-effective blood test for diagnosing tuberculosis (TB) by detecting Mycobacterium tuberculosis DNA. Traditional TB diagnostics rely on sputum samples, which can be difficult to obtain, especially from children and individuals with HIV. By utilizing CRISPR technology, the study seeks to create a test that can accurately identify active TB cases, even in patients with low levels of the bacteria. This innovative approach could significantly improve TB diagnosis and treatment monitoring for all patients, regardless of their HIV status.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to faster and more accurate TB diagnoses, ultimately improving treatment outcomes and reducing transmission rates.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using CRISPR technology for diagnostic purposes, indicating potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Diego
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rodwell, Timothy Charles — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Rodwell, Timothy Charles
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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.