Why some people resist tuberculosis while others get severe disease
Human macrophage variation & TB pathogenesis
We compare immune cells and genes from people who resist TB and from those who develop lung or brain TB to find what protects some people.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11372576 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project looks at immune cells and genes from people who were exposed to TB or who developed active TB, so participants share samples and health information. Researchers use samples from large cohorts in Vietnam and Uganda and infect participants' monocytes in the lab to watch how macrophages respond to M. tuberculosis. They measure gene activity, proteins, and genetic variants and map human–bacterial protein interactions to identify pathways linked to resistance or severe disease. The goal is to discover specific genes and immune signals that could point to new tests or treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates are people exposed to TB—such as household contacts—as well as patients with active pulmonary TB or TB meningitis, especially at sites in Vietnam or Uganda.
Not a fit: People without TB exposure or with unrelated medical conditions are unlikely to be eligible or to benefit directly from this work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could point to new tests or immune-targeted treatments that prevent infection or stop severe forms like TB meningitis.
How similar studies have performed: Earlier cohort and lab studies have found immune signatures and candidate genes, and this project builds on those findings using newer genetic and proteomic approaches to find additional protective mechanisms.
Where this research is happening
Seattle, United States
- University of Washington — Seattle, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hawn, Thomas R — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Hawn, Thomas R
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 below.