Understanding how tuberculosis bacteria affect disease severity and spread in communities

Using the Mycobacterium tuberculosis Genome to Predict Tuberculosis Pathology, Drug Resistance Acquisition and Identify Community Transmission Sites

['FUNDING_R01'] · JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY · NIH-10814347

This study is looking at how the genes of tuberculosis bacteria might affect how serious the disease is, based on chest X-rays, and it aims to find ways to track where the disease spreads in communities to help prevent it from getting worse.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorJOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10814347 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the relationship between the genetic makeup of tuberculosis (TB) bacteria and the severity of the disease as seen in chest X-rays. By analyzing population-level genome sequencing data alongside clinical and demographic information, the study aims to identify specific genetic markers that indicate how severe a TB infection might be. Additionally, it seeks to pinpoint community transmission sites using advanced mapping techniques and GPS data, which could help in controlling the spread of TB and preventing drug resistance. This approach combines cutting-edge genomic analysis with real-time data to enhance our understanding of TB transmission dynamics.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with tuberculosis, particularly those in high-incidence areas like Peru.

Not a fit: Patients who are not affected by tuberculosis or who live in regions with low incidence of the disease may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing and treating tuberculosis, ultimately saving lives.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using genomic data to understand infectious diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

BALTIMORE, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Infectious Disease Pathway, Infectious Diseases, Infectious Disorder, Communicable Diseases

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.