Understanding how human antibodies can protect against tuberculosis
Characteristics and protective efficacy of human antibodies against M. tuberculosis
This study is looking at how our body's antibodies can help protect us from tuberculosis (TB) and aims to find out how a common vaccine, called BCG, can be improved to offer better protection against this serious disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Albert Einstein College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Bronx, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10649613 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of human antibodies in providing protection against tuberculosis (TB), a serious infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The study aims to identify specific antibody responses that can be induced by vaccination, particularly focusing on the Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG) vaccine, which has been used for nearly a century but offers limited protection. By characterizing the binding properties and functions of these antibodies, researchers hope to uncover new insights that could lead to more effective TB vaccines and therapies. Patients may benefit from this research as it seeks to enhance our understanding of immune responses to TB, potentially leading to improved prevention strategies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who have been vaccinated with the BCG vaccine or those who are at risk of tuberculosis infection.
Not a fit: Patients who are not at risk for tuberculosis or who have already developed active TB may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of more effective vaccines and treatments for tuberculosis.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding antibody responses to infectious diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights for tuberculosis.
Where this research is happening
Bronx, United States
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine — Bronx, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Achkar, Jacqueline Michele — Albert Einstein College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Achkar, Jacqueline Michele
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.