Testing for tuberculosis using tongue swabs

High-sensitivity tongue swab testing for tuberculosis

['FUNDING_R21'] · UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON · NIH-11122337

This study is working on a new, easy way to test for active tuberculosis using a quick and painless mouth swab, making it simpler for people at risk to get checked without the hassle of traditional tests.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SEATTLE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11122337 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a high-sensitivity method for diagnosing active tuberculosis (TB) using noninvasive oral swab samples. Traditional sputum tests can be difficult and risky for patients, especially in community settings where TB is prevalent. This project aims to enhance swab sampling techniques and utilize advanced processing technologies to detect Mycobacterium tuberculosis DNA from the tongue. The painless and quick sampling process allows for easier testing, particularly for individuals who may be at risk for TB but do not show symptoms.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals at risk for tuberculosis who may have difficulty providing sputum samples.

Not a fit: Patients who have already been diagnosed with tuberculosis and are receiving treatment may not benefit directly from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a simpler and safer method for diagnosing tuberculosis, potentially improving patient outcomes and reducing transmission rates.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using noninvasive sampling methods for TB detection, indicating that this approach could be a viable alternative.

Where this research is happening

SEATTLE, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.