Understanding how tuberculosis bacteria interact with the human body

Assessing the Mycobacterium tuberculosis carriage state

NIH-funded research University of Georgia · NIH-11058229

This study is looking at how some people can fight off the tuberculosis bacteria without getting sick, and it aims to find out what helps them do this so we can improve testing and treatment for TB.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Georgia NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Athens, United States)
Project IDNIH-11058229 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb), the bacteria that causes tuberculosis (TB), interacts with individuals who have been exposed to it. The study aims to uncover the mechanisms that allow some people to clear the bacteria without developing symptoms or transmitting the disease. By examining the upper respiratory tracts of individuals, the researchers hope to identify factors that contribute to this clearance process. This could lead to better diagnostic methods and treatment strategies for TB.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who have been exposed to tuberculosis but do not show active symptoms.

Not a fit: Patients who have active tuberculosis or are under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and management of tuberculosis, potentially reducing its transmission and improving patient outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in understanding bacterial interactions in respiratory diseases, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Athens, 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.
Conditions Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome VirusAcquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome VirusAcute Diseaseacute disease/disorderacute disorder
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.