Understanding how specific immune cells protect against tuberculosis

Harnessing activated CD4 T cells to define new mechanisms of protection in tuberculosis

NIH-funded research University of Minnesota · NIH-10877769

This study is looking at how certain immune cells called CD4 T cells help protect against tuberculosis (TB) by examining their behavior in the lungs of people with the infection, which could lead to better ways to treat or prevent TB in the future.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Minnesota NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Minneapolis, United States)
Project IDNIH-10877769 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of activated CD4 T cells in providing protection against tuberculosis (TB). By isolating these cells from the lungs of infected individuals, the study aims to identify their specific functions and the mechanisms they use to combat the Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria. The researchers employ advanced techniques such as single-cell RNA sequencing and fluorescence cell sorting to analyze these immune cells in detail. This approach could lead to new insights into TB immunity and potential therapeutic strategies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have been diagnosed with tuberculosis and have a measurable immune response.

Not a fit: Patients who are not infected with tuberculosis or those with other unrelated health conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments and vaccines for tuberculosis, enhancing patient outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in utilizing immune cell profiling to enhance understanding of TB immunity, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Minneapolis, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.