Understanding how the immune system protects against tuberculosis
IMMUNE MECHANISMS OF PROTECTION AGAINST MYCOBACTERIUM TUBERCULOSIS CENTER (IMPAC-TB)
This study is looking at how our immune system fights tuberculosis and aims to find ways to improve vaccines for it, especially for people who might also have other infections like HIV. If you're a patient, you might have the chance to help us understand your immune responses to support better vaccine development.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Harvard School of Public Health NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11176666 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the immune responses necessary for protection against Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) by analyzing tissue-specific and systemic responses in small animals, non-human primates, and humans. The team aims to identify key immunologic targets that could enhance tuberculosis vaccine strategies. Additionally, the research will explore how infections like HIV and other mycobacteria affect immune responses to tuberculosis. Patients may be involved in studies that assess their immune responses to better inform vaccine development.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation include individuals with a history of tuberculosis exposure or those living with HIV, as their immune responses are particularly relevant to the study.
Not a fit: Patients who are not at risk for tuberculosis or do not have any immune system-related conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved tuberculosis vaccines and better protection for patients against this disease.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding immune responses to tuberculosis, making this approach a continuation of established work in the field.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Harvard School of Public Health — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fortune, Sarah — Harvard School of Public Health
- Study coordinator: Fortune, Sarah
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.