Understanding the immune response in patients with HIV and tuberculosis

Dissecting the pathogenesis of HIV-TB Immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome

NIH-funded research University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh · NIH-10891490

This study is looking at how the immune system reacts in people who have both HIV and tuberculosis, especially when their immune system starts to recover after treatment, to help find better ways to treat and prevent complications for those patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Pittsburgh, United States)
Project IDNIH-10891490 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the complex immune responses in patients co-infected with HIV and tuberculosis (TB), particularly focusing on a condition known as TB-IRIS, which can occur when the immune system begins to recover after treatment. The study aims to develop an animal model to explore how the immune system interacts with the TB bacteria and HIV in tissues, especially in the lungs. By examining these interactions, researchers hope to uncover the mechanisms behind TB-IRIS and identify potential strategies for treatment and prevention. This research is crucial for improving outcomes for patients who are at high risk of severe complications from these infections.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV who are also diagnosed with tuberculosis and are undergoing treatment.

Not a fit: Patients who are not co-infected with HIV and TB or those who are not undergoing treatment for these conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better management and treatment strategies for patients co-infected with HIV and TB, potentially reducing morbidity and mortality associated with TB-IRIS.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific mechanisms of TB-IRIS are not well understood, similar research approaches have shown promise in understanding immune responses in other co-infections, indicating potential for success in this area.

Where this research is happening

Pittsburgh, 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 Virus
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.