Understanding how tuberculosis spreads through the air

Transmission Aerobiology of M. tuberculosis: Genes and Metabolic Pathways That Sustain Mtb Across an Evolutionary Bottleneck

['FUNDING_P01'] · WEILL MEDICAL COLL OF CORNELL UNIV · NIH-11086678

This study is looking at how the tuberculosis germ spreads through the air and survives, so we can find better ways to stop it from infecting people.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_P01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorWEILL MEDICAL COLL OF CORNELL UNIV (nih funded)
Locations1 site (NEW YORK, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11086678 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the transmission of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb), the bacterium responsible for tuberculosis, focusing on how it survives and spreads through the air. By studying the genetic and metabolic pathways of Mtb, researchers aim to identify key factors that allow the bacterium to thrive during aerosol transmission. The project employs advanced technologies and animal models to simulate transmission conditions, enabling a deeper understanding of Mtb's biology and potential new interventions to block its spread. This collaborative effort combines expertise from various disciplines to tackle the challenges of tuberculosis transmission.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at high risk of tuberculosis exposure or infection, including those in close contact with infected individuals or living in areas with high TB prevalence.

Not a fit: Patients who are not at risk for tuberculosis or those who have already been effectively treated for the disease may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing the spread of tuberculosis, ultimately reducing infection rates and improving public health.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding tuberculosis transmission, but this approach aims to explore novel aspects of Mtb's biology that have not been extensively studied.

Where this research is happening

NEW YORK, 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.