Understanding how tuberculosis affects the immune system and uses cholesterol
Official title: Defining host-pathogen oxysterol co-metabolites and their role in TB pathogenesis
Funded at Washington University · NIH-11034123 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the tuberculosis bacteria use cholesterol to cause infection and hopes to find specific markers in patients' sputum that can help tell if someone has active tuberculosis or another similar illness, making it easier for doctors to diagnose and treat patients from different backgrounds.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | February 13, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $647,402 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI178685-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11034123 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals presenting with symptoms of tuberculosis or those at high risk for the disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not exhibit symptoms of tuberculosis or are not at risk for the disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) interacts with the host's immune system and utilizes cholesterol to establish infection. The study focuses on specific cholesterol derivatives, known as oxysterols, that may serve as biomarkers for tuberculosis infection. By analyzing these metabolites in patients' sputum, the research aims to differentiate between active tuberculosis cases and other conditions with similar symptoms. The approach includes examining samples from diverse populations to ensure the findings are broadly applicable.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnostic methods for tuberculosis, allowing for earlier and more accurate detection of the disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using biomarkers for tuberculosis diagnosis, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Philips, Jennifer a — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Philips, Jennifer a
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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.