Understanding how gut bacteria affect tuberculosis susceptibility

The role of the gut microbiome in susceptibility to Mycobacterium tuberculosis

['FUNDING_R21'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA BERKELEY · NIH-10880556

This study is looking at how the bacteria in our gut might affect how our bodies fight off tuberculosis (TB), and it’s for anyone interested in understanding how gut health can influence TB and related weight loss issues.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA BERKELEY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (BERKELEY, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10880556 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the relationship between the gut microbiome and susceptibility to tuberculosis (TB), a serious infectious disease. By studying genetically identical mice with different gut microbiomes, researchers aim to understand how these microbial communities influence the immune response to Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The study will involve fecal microbiome transplants to observe changes in infection control and cachexia, a severe weight loss condition associated with TB. This research could provide insights into how gut health impacts TB outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with varying susceptibility to tuberculosis, particularly those who are immunocompromised or experiencing significant weight loss.

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

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing and treating tuberculosis by targeting gut microbiome health.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that gut microbiome composition can influence immune responses to infections, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

BERKELEY, 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 →

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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.