Understanding how the immune system protects against tuberculosis
Official title: Immune Mechanisms of Protection Against Mycobacterium Tuberculosis Center (IMPAC-TB)
Funded at Harvard School of Public Health · NIH-11201149 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how our immune system fights tuberculosis and aims to find ways to improve vaccines, and people with tuberculosis can help by sharing samples or joining in on the research.
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 start | September 30, 2019 |
| Project end | September 29, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $2,451,280 |
| NIH project number | 75N93019C00071-P00024-9999-2 |
| Project ID | NIH-11201149 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation include individuals with a history of tuberculosis exposure or those living with HIV.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not at risk for tuberculosis or do not have any immune-related conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the immune responses necessary for protection against Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) by analyzing tissue-specific and systemic immune reactions 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 contribute to this research by providing samples or participating in studies that assess their immune responses.
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 gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding immune responses to tuberculosis, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
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.