Understanding how tuberculosis bacteria adapt to the human body
Official title: Dissecting virulence gene regulatory pathways in M. tuberculosis clinical isolates
Funded at Harvard School of Public Health · NIH-11037909 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how different genetic changes in the tuberculosis bacteria can affect how sick people get, helping us understand why some people have mild infections while others become very ill.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Harvard School of Public Health NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $81,364 |
| NIH project number | 5F32AI174653-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11037909 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with tuberculosis or those who have been exposed to the bacteria.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have tuberculosis or are not at risk of exposure to the bacteria may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the genetic variation in Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) affects its ability to cause disease in humans. By analyzing clinical isolates from patients, the study aims to identify how changes in gene expression contribute to different disease outcomes, from asymptomatic infections to severe illness. The researchers will use advanced techniques to capture and analyze the bacteria's response to environmental stressors, such as acid and low oxygen levels, which are relevant to the human body. This approach could help uncover new insights into the mechanisms of tuberculosis virulence and antibiotic resistance.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for diagnosing and treating tuberculosis, particularly in antibiotic-resistant cases.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding bacterial genetics and virulence, indicating that this approach has potential for meaningful discoveries.
Where this research is happening
-
Harvard School of Public Health
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Culviner, Peter H — Harvard School of Public Health
- Study coordinator: Culviner, Peter H
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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.