Understanding how certain immune cells affect tuberculosis susceptibility
Defining Mechanisms for Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cell-driven Mycobacterium tuberculosis Susceptibility
This study is looking at how certain immune cells in the body help fight off tuberculosis, the disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, using a mouse model to find new ways to improve treatment for people with this infection.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10985384 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs) in the body's response to Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb), the bacteria responsible for tuberculosis. Using a mouse model that mimics human infection, the researchers aim to identify how these immune cells contribute to the progression of the disease and explore potential therapeutic targets. The study will track the movement and function of pDCs during infection to better understand their impact on Mtb control. By uncovering these mechanisms, the research seeks to pave the way for new treatment strategies that could enhance the immune response against tuberculosis.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research would be adults at risk of tuberculosis infection or those with a history of the disease.
Not a fit: Patients who are not at risk for tuberculosis or those who have already been effectively treated may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that improve the immune response to tuberculosis, potentially reducing the disease's impact on patients.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in targeting immune responses to improve outcomes in tuberculosis, making this approach both relevant and potentially impactful.
Where this research is happening
Saint Louis, United States
- Washington University — Saint Louis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kotov, Dmitri I — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Kotov, Dmitri I
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.