Understanding how the immune system protects against tuberculosis

Immune Mechanisms of Protection Against Mycobacterium Tuberculosis Center (IMPAC-TB)

NIH-funded research Seattle Children's Hospital · NIH-11179082

This study is looking at how our immune system fights against tuberculosis and how it might be affected by COVID-19, with the goal of finding better ways to improve tuberculosis vaccines, and it may involve patients providing samples or sharing information about their immune responses.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionSeattle Children's Hospital NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Seattle, United States)
Project IDNIH-11179082 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the immune responses that protect against Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) infection by analyzing tissue-specific and systemic immune reactions in small animals, non-human primates, and humans. The study aims to identify key immune mechanisms and potential immunologic targets that could enhance tuberculosis vaccine strategies. Additionally, it will explore the effects of co-infection with SARS-CoV-2 on the immune system, providing insights into how these infections interact. Patients may be involved in providing samples or participating in assessments related to their immune responses.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation include individuals with a history of tuberculosis infection or those at high risk for tuberculosis.

Not a fit: Patients who are not at risk for tuberculosis or do not have a history of the infection may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved tuberculosis vaccines and better protection against the disease.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding immune responses to tuberculosis, but this approach is particularly novel in its focus on co-infection with SARS-CoV-2.

Where this research is happening

Seattle, 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.