Understanding how tuberculosis spreads using genetic information
Official title: Leveraging within-host M. tuberculosis diversity data to enhance transmission inference
Funded at University of Utah · NIH-10995280 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how tuberculosis spreads by checking the genetic differences in the bacteria from patients' samples, which will help us find better ways to track and control outbreaks, especially in places where many people are infected.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Utah NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Salt Lake City, United States) |
| Project start | December 8, 2022 |
| Project end | November 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $132,057 |
| NIH project number | 5K01AI173385-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10995280 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with active tuberculosis, particularly in high-incidence areas.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have latent tuberculosis or those who are not currently infected with the disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on improving our understanding of tuberculosis transmission by analyzing the genetic diversity of the bacteria within infected individuals. By examining sputum samples from patients, the study aims to develop new methods to identify how tuberculosis spreads in communities, particularly in areas with high infection rates. The goal is to create models that can accurately trace transmission pathways, which could help in controlling outbreaks and improving public health responses.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective strategies for controlling tuberculosis transmission and reducing infection rates.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research in genomic epidemiology has shown promise in understanding infectious disease transmission, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Utah
Salt Lake City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Walter, Katharine Sassandra — University of Utah
- Study coordinator: Walter, Katharine Sassandra
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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.