Understanding how certain toxins affect tuberculosis bacteria growth
Genome exploration through toxin-mediated ribosome stalling
This study is looking at how the tuberculosis bacteria can go into a sleep mode, especially in people with weakened immune systems like those with HIV, to help find better ways to diagnose and treat latent TB infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Newark, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-10616690 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) can enter a dormant state, leading to latent tuberculosis infections. It focuses on the role of toxin-antitoxin systems that may help Mtb survive under stress, particularly in individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV. By using advanced genomic tools, the research aims to track how these toxins influence bacterial growth and dormancy. The ultimate goal is to develop better diagnostics and treatment options for latent TB infections.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with latent tuberculosis infections, especially those who are immunocompromised or infected with HIV.
Not a fit: Patients with active tuberculosis or those not infected with Mycobacterium tuberculosis may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnostics and more effective treatments for latent tuberculosis, particularly benefiting those at risk of reactivation.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding toxin-antitoxin systems in bacteria, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights into tuberculosis treatment.
Where this research is happening
Newark, UNITED STATES
- Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences — Newark, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Woychik, Nancy Ann — Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Woychik, Nancy Ann
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.