Understanding how tuberculosis bacteria interact with the human body
Official title: Assessing the Mycobacterium tuberculosis carriage state
Funded at University of Georgia · NIH-11058229 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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 type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Georgia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Athens, United States) |
| Project start | April 21, 2025 |
| Project end | March 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $187,998 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AI182993-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11058229 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who have been exposed to tuberculosis but do not show active symptoms.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have active tuberculosis or are under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
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.
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 gone: 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
-
University of Georgia
Athens, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Quinn, Frederick D — University of Georgia
- Study coordinator: Quinn, Frederick D
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-
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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.