Using engineered nanoparticles to fight tuberculosis
Official title: Nanoparticle-based host-directed therapies for eradication of Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Funded at Stellenbosch University · NIH-10815747 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how tiny particles can help boost the immune system's ability to fight tuberculosis, especially for people whose immune systems are weaker, by making it easier for immune cells to target and kill the bacteria.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Stellenbosch University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stellenbosch, SOUTH AFRICA) |
| Project start | April 6, 2020 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $303,416 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI152109-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-10815747 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with tuberculosis, particularly those with drug-resistant strains or compromised immune systems.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-infectious diseases or those who do not have tuberculosis will not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how specially designed nanoparticles can enhance the immune response against Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the bacteria that causes tuberculosis. By mimicking the bacteria's characteristics, these nanoparticles aim to improve the ability of immune cells, specifically macrophages, to kill the bacteria effectively. The study focuses on delivering immunomodulatory signals through these nanoparticles to overcome the challenges posed by drug-resistant strains and bacterial persistence. If successful, this approach could lead to more effective treatments for tuberculosis, especially in patients with compromised immune systems.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a novel treatment option for tuberculosis that is more effective against drug-resistant strains.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using nanoparticle-based therapies for infectious diseases, indicating potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Stellenbosch University
Stellenbosch, South Africa Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sampson, Samantha Leigh — Stellenbosch University
- Study coordinator: Sampson, Samantha Leigh
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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.