Understanding how tuberculosis bacteria cause cough and spread

Mechanisms of cough in Mycobacterium tuberculosis transmission

['FUNDING_R01'] · UT SOUTHWESTERN MEDICAL CENTER · NIH-11030724

This study is looking at how the bacteria that cause tuberculosis can make people cough, which helps them spread the infection, and it aims to find out how this happens so we can better control the disease.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUT SOUTHWESTERN MEDICAL CENTER (nih funded)
Locations1 site (DALLAS, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11030724 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms by which Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) causes cough, a key method for its transmission between individuals. By studying the interaction between Mtb and nociceptive neurons, the research aims to uncover how the bacteria may trigger cough responses during infection. The approach includes analyzing specific bacterial strains and their effects on cough induction, which could provide insights into the dynamics of tuberculosis transmission. The findings could lead to better strategies for controlling the spread of tuberculosis.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with active tuberculosis who experience persistent cough.

Not a fit: Patients with latent tuberculosis infection or those without respiratory symptoms may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved methods for preventing the transmission of tuberculosis, ultimately reducing infection rates.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding the mechanisms of bacterial transmission can lead to significant advancements in public health strategies, suggesting potential success for this approach.

Where this research is happening

DALLAS, 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 →

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.