Understanding how drug-resistant tuberculosis spreads in a South African city with high HIV rates
Transmission of drug-resistant tuberculosis in a South African city with a high prevalence of HIV infection
This study is looking at how drug-resistant tuberculosis spreads in Johannesburg, especially among people with HIV, to find better ways to prevent and treat TB for those at higher risk.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10878964 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the transmission patterns of drug-resistant tuberculosis (TB) in Johannesburg, South Africa, particularly among individuals living with HIV. By utilizing advanced whole genome sequencing techniques, the study aims to identify recent clusters of TB transmission that traditional contact tracing methods may miss. The research will also explore how factors like HIV status and antiretroviral therapy influence the likelihood of TB transmission. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to improved prevention and treatment strategies for TB in high-risk populations.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals living in Johannesburg who are diagnosed with drug-resistant tuberculosis and may also be HIV positive.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have drug-resistant tuberculosis or are not living in the Johannesburg area may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective strategies for controlling and preventing drug-resistant tuberculosis, particularly in populations affected by HIV.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research using whole genome sequencing has shown promise in understanding TB transmission dynamics, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Nashville, United States
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center — Nashville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Berhanu, Rebecca Hafkin — Vanderbilt University Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Berhanu, Rebecca Hafkin
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.