Understanding how certain lipids affect tuberculosis infection

Determining the role of sphingolipids in Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection

['FUNDING_R01'] · OREGON HEALTH & SCIENCE UNIVERSITY · NIH-11020960

This study is looking at how certain fats in our cells might affect how the bacteria that causes tuberculosis (TB) infects us, with the hope of finding new ways to help treat or prevent the disease.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorOREGON HEALTH & SCIENCE UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (PORTLAND, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11020960 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of sphingolipids, a type of lipid found in cell membranes, in the infection process of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb), the bacteria that causes tuberculosis (TB). By studying how Mtb interacts with the host's lipid metabolism, the research aims to uncover how these lipids influence the immune response and bacterial growth. The approach involves manipulating specific lipid pathways in immune cells to observe their effects on Mtb infection. This could lead to new insights into TB pathogenesis and potential therapeutic targets.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are infected with Mycobacterium tuberculosis or are at high risk of developing tuberculosis.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have tuberculosis or are not at risk for the infection may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for tuberculosis by targeting lipid metabolism to enhance the immune response against the infection.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that targeting lipid metabolism can influence bacterial infections, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

PORTLAND, 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.