Understanding how Mycobacterium tuberculosis evolves and affects treatment outcomes
Official title: Identifying the drivers of ESX1 evolution in Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Funded at Harvard School of Public Health · NIH-11034427 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain genes in the tuberculosis bacteria might affect how well treatments work, with the goal of finding better ways to help people with drug-sensitive tuberculosis.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Harvard School of Public Health NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | November 12, 2024 |
| Project end | October 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $193,375 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AI187884-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11034427 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with uncomplicated, drug-sensitive tuberculosis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with drug-resistant tuberculosis or those who do not have an active infection may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the genetic factors that influence how Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) evolves and responds to treatment. By analyzing the ESX1 secretion system in Mtb, the study aims to identify specific genetic variations that may contribute to treatment failure in patients with drug-sensitive tuberculosis. The researchers will conduct experiments to observe how these genetic changes affect the bacteria's interaction with the human immune system, potentially leading to better treatment strategies. The findings could help in developing more effective therapies for tuberculosis.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment protocols for tuberculosis, reducing the rate of treatment failure.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding bacterial genetics can lead to significant advancements in treatment strategies, suggesting that this approach has the potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Harvard School of Public Health
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fortune, Sarah — Harvard School of Public Health
- Study coordinator: Fortune, Sarah
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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.