Understanding how genetics and immune responses affect tuberculosis progression
Official title: Integrating single-cell omics and ancestry-adjusted eQTL mapping to characterize Tuberculosis immune response
Funded at University of California at Davis · NIH-10871442 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how our genes and immune system work together to affect the progression of tuberculosis (TB) by analyzing blood samples from people at different stages of the infection, and it aims to help us better understand who might develop active TB after being exposed, especially in South Africa where TB is common.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California at Davis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Davis, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $272,202 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AI183161-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10871442 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals exposed to tuberculosis, particularly those with latent TB infection or recent TB infection.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have never been exposed to tuberculosis or those who are currently undergoing treatment for active TB may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how genetic factors and immune responses influence the progression of tuberculosis (TB) by analyzing blood samples from individuals at different stages of TB infection. Using advanced techniques like whole genome sequencing and single-cell RNA sequencing, the study aims to identify specific genetic variants that affect immune responses to TB. The research will take place in South Africa, where TB is prevalent, allowing for a comprehensive understanding of the disease across various patient states. By examining the immune cells in detail, the study hopes to improve predictions of who may develop active TB after exposure.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better prediction and prevention strategies for tuberculosis, ultimately saving lives.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using genetic and immune profiling to understand TB, but this approach is novel in its integration of single-cell analysis across multiple disease states.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California at Davis
Davis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Henn, Brenna M — University of California at Davis
- Study coordinator: Henn, Brenna M
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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.