Understanding how tuberculosis spreads in the body

Mathematical modeling of Mycobacterium tuberculosis dissemination

['FUNDING_R01'] · TEXAS BIOMEDICAL RESEARCH INSTITUTE · NIH-11055457

This study is looking at how the tuberculosis bacteria spread in the lungs and possibly to other parts of the body, especially to help improve understanding and treatment for young children and people with weakened immune systems.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorTEXAS BIOMEDICAL RESEARCH INSTITUTE (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SAN ANTONIO, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11055457 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms by which the tuberculosis bacteria, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, disseminate within the lungs and potentially spread to other parts of the body. By utilizing innovative techniques such as a novel animal model and barcoded strains of the bacteria, the team aims to quantify how the bacteria behave and progress in the body. The study also includes the use of mRNA-based gene signatures to predict disease progression in humans. This comprehensive approach seeks to enhance our understanding of tuberculosis, particularly in vulnerable populations like young children and immunocompromised adults.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include young children and immunocompromised adults who are at higher risk for tuberculosis dissemination.

Not a fit: Patients with non-infectious diseases or those who do not have tuberculosis will not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnostic and treatment strategies for tuberculosis, especially in patients with extrapulmonary TB.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding tuberculosis dissemination, but this approach using novel animal models and gene signatures is relatively innovative and may provide new insights.

Where this research is happening

SAN ANTONIO, 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: Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome Virus, Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Virus

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.