Understanding how specific immune responses to tuberculosis can protect against the disease
Official title: Functionally distinct human CD4 T cell responses to novel evolutionarily selected M. tuberculosis antigens
Funded at University of California, San Francisco · NIH-10875535 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain immune cells help protect against tuberculosis (TB) by finding specific parts of the TB bacteria that can boost our immune response, which could lead to better vaccines for people at risk of TB.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $849,367 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI173002-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10875535 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation include adults who have been in close contact with individuals diagnosed with tuberculosis and have tested positive for TB exposure.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are currently infected with active tuberculosis or those who have not been exposed to the bacteria may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of CD4 T cells in providing immunity against tuberculosis (TB) by identifying specific antigens from the M. tuberculosis bacteria that trigger protective immune responses. The researchers are using advanced techniques in comparative genomics and experimental immunology to discover novel antigens that may enhance our understanding of how the immune system recognizes and responds to TB. By studying the immune responses of individuals who have been exposed to TB, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms that lead to effective immunity and potential vaccine development.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing and treating tuberculosis, potentially reducing the incidence of this serious disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in identifying protective immune responses to other pathogens, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights for tuberculosis as well.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Francisco
San Francisco, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ernst, Joel D. — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Ernst, Joel D.
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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.