Tuberculosis
Articles tagged with Tuberculosis
Expanded tuberculosis screening does not speed up treatment initiation or improve survival in hospitalized patients with HIV
A clinical trial found that adding molecular tests on urine and stool samples did not speed up treatment initiation or reduce mortality in hospitalized patients with HIV. The study showed no significant difference in treatment initiation within 72 hours between the expanded screening group and the standard group.
Tuberculosis risk: promising approaches for screening and prediction
Providing food baskets to people with tuberculosis is cost-effective and could avert over 100,000 deaths annually in India
Researchers found that providing food baskets to households affected by TB can prevent 10,470 years of poor health or early death for every 10,000 patients. The intervention is estimated to be cost-effective, costing $141 per health gain, and could avert approximately 120,000 TB deaths per year nationwide.
Portable TB test matches lab accuracy in just minutes
A new portable device can deliver accurate test results for tuberculosis (TB) in less than half an hour, matching lab accuracy. The MiniDock MTB uses similar technology to COVID-19 tests and detects DNA of mycobacterium tuberculosis, enabling rapid diagnosis and treatment
Ultrasensitive test reveals evidence of previously undetected tuberculosis in Boston Hospital patients
A new ultrasensitive test reveals evidence of previously undetected tuberculosis in Boston Hospital patients, with a striking link to life-threatening sickle cell disease complications. The study found that most TB DNA-positive patients were age 50 or older and tested negative on standard TB infection tests.
Trial assesses safety and effectiveness of two new TB vaccines
Two new TB vaccines, VPM1002 and Immuvac, demonstrate safety and effectiveness in preventing progression to active TB in latent infection, particularly in children. However, they do not offer general protection against all forms of TB or prevent weight-related mortality.
Inuit recommendations to address high rates of tuberculosis in Nunavik, Quebec
Inuit communities in Nunavik, Quebec, are facing a devastating tuberculosis epidemic, with rates 1000 times higher than non-Inuit populations. The study's findings highlight the need for increased healthcare resourcing and community-led initiatives to address this crisis.
Johns Hopkins team develops therapeutic, nasally delivered DNA vaccine for tuberculosis
The Johns Hopkins team developed a therapeutic intranasal DNA vaccine against tuberculosis that accelerated disease clearance, improved treatment outcomes, and stimulated immune responses. The vaccine combines two genes to direct the immune system to fight drug-tolerant bacterial persisters, showing promise for treating TB.
Elucidating the functional dynamics of DNASE1L2 intron retention in tuberculosis progression
Researchers identify DNASE1L2 intron retention as a biomarker for TB progression and reveal its role in regulating inflammation. The study shows that upregulation of DNASE1L2-IR promotes host clearance of pathogen DNA, while downregulation weakens this antibacterial defense mechanism.
A study links armed conflict in Colombia with higher tuberculosis cases and mortality
A study by ISGlobal found that areas with high conflict intensity recorded a higher disease burden, including higher TB case rates and mortality. The research highlights the need for control strategies adapted to each territory, incorporating conflict-sensitive approaches into surveillance, prevention, and healthcare systems.
Screening and preventive treatment program reduced tuberculosis incidence 83% among Tibetan children living in northern India
A recent study shows that a comprehensive TB screening and treatment program reduced TB incidence by 83% and prevalence of latent TB infection by 32% among Tibetan children in northern India. The program's success highlights the importance of community-led surveillance and treatment implementation to control TB transmission.
Genomic surveillance enables characterization of tuberculosis distribution in Catalonia
A study in Catalonia uses genomic sequencing to analyze TB bacterial strains, identifying the most frequent lineage and clusters of specific subtypes. The analysis provides insights into disease spread and may help identify outbreaks.
European Region misses 1 in 5 TB cases: WHO Europe and ECDC publish new joint surveillance report
The European Region is struggling to detect and treat tuberculosis, with 1 in 5 cases going undiagnosed or unreported. Drug-resistant strains are also a major concern, with the region accounting for a disproportionate share of global cases.
Study maps how tuberculosis bacteria power themselves
Researchers at The Hospital for Sick Children have mapped how tuberculosis bacteria fuel themselves during infection. They discovered the protein EtfD, which extracts energy from lipids, and developed a laboratory test to measure its activity. This breakthrough provides new insights into treating TB and may lead to shorter treatment re...
Foreign aid cuts to tuberculosis services could cost families $80 billion worldwide
A new study warns that reduced international funding for tuberculosis services could lead to significant economic hardship for 40 million households globally, with the poorest households bearing the greatest burden. The study estimates that complete elimination of external funding for TB could cost families up to $80 billion annually.
A new method reveals hidden rules of gene control
Researchers created a cell-free system to study transcription drivers and revealed fundamental features of the transcription cycle in Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The method enabled precise design of therapeutics targeting key processes, which could help combat this pathogen.
Reduced international donor funding associated with higher household economic burden of Tuberculosis in low- and middle-income countries, according to modelling study
A modelling study suggests that reduced international donor funding increases the household economic burden of tuberculosis in low- and middle-income countries. The research found that decreased funding leads to a significant rise in healthcare costs and lost productivity.
Tackling tuberculosis systematically: How the environment shapes TB risk
Researchers introduce 'tuberculogenic environment' concept, highlighting interplay between social structures and TB risk. Current efforts overlook broader structural factors sustaining TB epidemic.
Emerging class of antibiotics to tackle global tuberculosis crisis
A team of scientists at the University of Sydney has discovered how three naturally occurring antibiotic compounds disrupt the ClpC1–ClpP1P2 complex, a vital protein degradation machine in Mycobacterium tuberculosis. This finding uncovers surprising complexity and provides valuable insight into designing more effective anti-TB treatments.
Iron nanoparticle eliminates tuberculosis in mice and may pave the way for new treatments
A study by São Paulo State University found that an iron-based compound eliminated lung infection in mice after 30 days of treatment. The researchers developed lipid nanoparticles to improve stability and duration of action, outperforming standard antibiotics in eliminating the bacterial load.
Shorter treatment regimens are safe options for preventing active tuberculosis
A one- and three-month antibiotic treatment regimens both had few adverse reactions and high rates of completion in preventing active tuberculosis, says a new study published in PLOS Medicine. The regimens were deemed successful and neither proved superior to the other.
Early TB treatment reduced deaths from sepsis among people with HIV
A new study found that tuberculosis is a major cause of deadly sepsis among people living with HIV, particularly in Africa. Early treatment of TB has been shown to significantly reduce sepsis deaths, with a 23% reduction in mortality rate.
Sepsis study IDs simple ways to save lives in Africa
A sweeping new study has identified tuberculosis as the predominant cause of deadly sepsis among people with HIV in Africa. Immediate treatment for TB significantly increased survival rates, especially when treatment was started before diagnosis.
TB and HIV treatments are not enough for a full recovery
A team at Texas Biomedical Research Institute found that even with effective treatments for TB and HIV, the immune system remains seriously out-of-whack following treatment. The study suggests that host-directed therapies specifically targeting the immune system could potentially restore lung immune system functionality.
How Mtb safeguards itself from foreign DNA
Researchers discovered how the Lsr2 protein in Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) protects against foreign DNA inserted into its genome. This mechanism involves the protein forming condensates that silence specific regions of Mtb DNA, preventing harm to the bacteria.
New test shows which antibiotics actually work
Researchers developed a new method to measure how effectively antibiotics kill bacteria, crucial for treating complex infections. The 'antimicrobial single-cell testing' method predicts treatment success by observing individual bacteria under different conditions.
New clinical standards strengthen antimicrobial stewardship in tuberculosis care
The new clinical standards for antimicrobial stewardship in tuberculosis care aim to integrate TB into existing AMS frameworks, strengthening surveillance and resistance monitoring. The standards prioritize effectiveness, safety, and resistance prevention, promoting structured expert consultation services and targeted testing.
First breathing ‘lung-on-chip’ developed using genetically identical cells
Researchers at the Francis Crick Institute have created a human 'lung-on-chip' model with genetically identical cells from a single donor, simulating breathing motions and lung disease. The device, built by AlveoliX, holds promise for testing treatments for infections like tuberculosis and delivering personalized medicine.
High-dose antibiotic does not reduce mortality in tuberculous meningitis
A recent study found that high doses of rifampicin do not improve survival rates among adults with tuberculous meningitis. The researchers are now exploring alternative treatments targeting inflammation in the brain membranes and investigating TNF inhibitors as potential therapies.
Real-world data gives Africa a smarter path to fighting HIV and TB
Biostatisticians applied statistical method to existing routine data to understand how TB prevention protocols are functioning in real-world conditions. The results show clear progress and serious gaps in TB preventive treatment uptake among patients initiating antiretroviral therapy.
This new, one-two punch could knock out drug-resistant TB
A new study demonstrates a one-two punch approach to combatting drug-resistant tuberculosis by pairing rifampicin with AAP-SO2, which exploits the weaknesses of resistant bacteria. The combination effectively kills more bacteria than either drug alone, increasing potency and reducing resistance.
Canada’s reduced pledge to Global Fund will impact domestic health
A reduced pledge by Canada to the Global Fund could lead to decreased success in controlling tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS in the country. The authors of an editorial urge Canada's government to invest in improving social determinants of health and implement disease-specific suggestions to address these pressing global health issues.
Phase 2 clinical trial results show potential to shorten TB treatment time
Sorfequiline, in combination with pretomanid and linezolid, showed greater activity against TB than the standard of care, indicating potential to shorten treatment time. The regimen had a comparable safety profile to the standard of care for people with drug-sensitive TB.
Repurposed antibiotic shows promise against Central Nervous System Tuberculosis in NUS Medicine study
Researchers have demonstrated that doxycycline can improve survival rates and neurological outcomes in children with Central Nervous System Tuberculosis. The study found that treating CNS-TB laboratory models with doxycycline alongside standard TB drugs suppressed inflammation, preserved brain tissue, and improved vascular integrity.
Blood-based immunological signatures for extrapulmonary tuberculosis decoded
Researchers have identified three distinct immunotypes in EPTB patients, revealing new insights into disease mechanisms. Additionally, gene expression-based biomarkers have been developed to reliably diagnose both pulmonary and extrapulmonary tuberculosis.
New nasal vaccine has potential to transform respiratory disease prevention
A new nasally-delivered vaccine has been shown to prevent severe disease and curb bacterial transmission, addressing a global need for next-generation immunisation technologies. The vaccine targets the respiratory mucosa, providing stronger protection against respiratory infections.
MIT study finds targets for a new tuberculosis vaccine
Researchers at MIT have identified possible antigens for a new TB vaccine, stimulating a strong immune response in T cells. The study reveals 27 TB peptides that appear most often on infected cell surfaces and elicit a T cell response in at least some samples.
US funding cuts could result in nearly 9 million child tuberculosis cases, 1.5 million child deaths
A new study projects that US funding cuts will result in a catastrophic effect on pediatric TB, with children in Sub-Saharan Africa and Southeast Asia experiencing a significant spike in preventable cases and deaths over the next decade. The loss of US bilateral health aid is projected to result in an additional 2.5 million pediatric T...
CHEST and the City of Chicago announce October 19 as “Love Your Lungs Day"
The American College of Chest Physicians has designated October 19, 2025, as 'Love Your Lungs Day' in recognition of respiratory health. This initiative aims to raise awareness about lung diseases such as asthma and COPD, promoting equity and supporting healthcare providers.
Could targeted steroid use offer a universal complimentary treatment to fight TB?
A new study from Trinity College Dublin finds that dexamethasone can reduce inflammation in TB patients while enhancing the function of their macrophages to kill Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The research suggests using steroids as an adjunct therapy in conjunction with existing treatments, particularly in cases with excessive inflammation.
New CRISPR test could make tuberculosis screening as simple as a mouth swab
Researchers at Tulane University have developed an enhanced CRISPR-based tuberculosis test that works with a simple tongue swab, detecting TB in samples with very low levels of bacteria. The new test shows high sensitivity and accuracy, offering a significant step forward toward effective diagnoses via a variety of samples.
Rice scientists develop hydrogel platform for long-lasting, precision drug delivery
Researchers create peptide hydrogel that controls drug release, improving treatment adherence and efficacy for conditions like tuberculosis and diabetes. The SABER platform uses reversible chemical bonds to slow down drug release, offering a promising solution for precise delivery.
The withdrawal of U.S. funding for tuberculosis could lead to up to 2.2 million additional deaths between 2025 and 2030 inclusive
The US funding withdrawal could lead to a significant increase in tuberculosis-related deaths worldwide. According to the modelling study, this could result in approximately 2.2 million more deaths between 2025 and 2030, across high-burden TB countries.
New ‘cough simulator’ mimics TB transmission with unprecedented accuracy
Researchers have developed a novel platform to study human tuberculosis, allowing for accurate modeling of the disease's transmission. The Transmission Simulation System (TSS) mimics the airborne transmission of TB with unparalleled realism, enabling the study of vulnerabilities and strategies to interrupt transmission.
New AI tool reveals how drugs kill tuberculosis
A new study offers a powerful AI-assisted method for uncovering exactly how TB drugs kill the bacteria, which could lead to smarter treatment combinations. The approach uncovers molecular details of drug interactions and can predict their impact from images alone.
Seventy-year-old Parkinson’s drug shows promise against tuberculosis
A new study reveals benztropine, a Parkinson's treatment, can boost the body's natural immune response to combat tuberculosis (TB) bacteria. The research found that benztropine can dramatically reduce TB bacterial counts in experiments with human and mouse immune cells.
Recombinant fusion ESAT6-CFP10 immunogen as a skin test reagent for tuberculosis diagnosis in children and adolescents: An open-label, randomized, multicenter phase III trial
A new skin test reagent using the recombinant ESAT6-CFP10 fusion protein has been developed to overcome limitations of existing tests. The C-TST, a phase III clinical trial, demonstrated high sensitivity (91.2%) and specificity (69.7%) for TB diagnosis in children and adolescents.
In hard-to-treat form of tuberculosis, shorter, gentler therapy shows unequal benefit
A new clinical trial found that a shorter treatment with fewer drugs may be beneficial for some patients with highly drug-resistant tuberculosis, but not all. The trial showed an 87% effective rate for the shorter regimen compared to 89% for the longer therapy.
TB bacteria play possum to evade vaccines
A genetic study in mice reveals that TB bacteria can survive in vaccinated or previously infected hosts by switching strategies and relying on different genes. The research could lead to the creation of treatments given alongside vaccines to help the immune system root out TB when it tries to hide.
Clinical trials reveal promising alternatives to highly toxic tuberculosis drug
Clinical trials show that sutezolid and delpazolid are safer alternatives to linezolid, with strong antimicrobial activity and fewer side effects. These novel antibiotics have the potential to replace linezolid in TB treatment regimens, particularly for long-term use.
Clinical trials reveal promising alternatives to high-toxicity tuberculosis drug
Clinical trials show sutezolid and delpazolid are safer alternatives to linezolid for treating drug-resistant TB, with no cases of nerve damage or blood toxicity reported. The findings suggest these drugs could replace linezolid in treatment regimens.
New breakthrough uncovers how to kill ‘zombie’ TB cells resistant to antibiotics
Researchers at the University of Surrey have identified genes that disrupt the survival of 'zombie' TB cells, which are resistant to antibiotics. By understanding these mechanisms, scientists can develop new drugs that target persisters and shorten treatment regimens.
New credit card-sized TB test could close the diagnostic gap in HIV hotspots
Researchers at Tulane University developed a handheld TB test inspired by the bombardier beetle's natural defense mechanism. The ASTRA device requires only a drop of blood and delivers same-day diagnoses without need for laboratory or trained staff, outperforming traditional tests in detection of TB with HIV co-infection.
New paper shows path to shorten, innovate tuberculosis treatment
A new study suggests tailoring TB treatment to disease severity could improve patient outcomes and prevent the spread of drug-resistant strains. By identifying patients with less severe forms of TB, treatment courses can be safely shortened, reducing the risk of treatment failure and relapse.
Study led by IGTP reveals correlation between tuberculosis lesion transcriptomics and patients’ clinical parameters
Researchers at IGTP reveal a clear separation between lesional and non-lesional tissue, with high expression of pro-inflammatory genes in lesions. The study identifies 17 differential transcriptomic modules and associates molecular profiles with clinical indicators from the same patients.
Ragon Institute study uncovers how certain antibodies help fight tuberculosis
Researchers identified specific antibody features that limit Mtb growth, revealing critical insights into antibody-immune cell interactions. The study lays groundwork for potential antibody-based therapies or vaccines against tuberculosis, an urgently needed treatment for the deadly infectious disease.
Multiple testing for infectious diseases key to cutting onward transmission
A new study found that routine testing for multiple infectious diseases among migrants can identify key infections earlier, improving health outcomes and reducing onward transmission. The Leicester screening programme, which tested 4004 migrant patients, revealed new diagnoses of TB, Hepatitis B and C, and HIV.
Research maps the way to reducing tuberculosis cases worldwide
Researchers mapped TB cases in Africa using a Bayesian geospatial analysis, revealing dramatic differences in disease burden between local regions. The study's findings highlight the importance of targeted health resources and could help reduce tuberculosis deaths by 95% by 2035.
Tuberculous meningitis: metabolism drives mortality
Researchers used metabolomics to analyze cerebrospinal fluid samples from tuberculous meningitis patients and found that certain metabolic pathways may contribute to poor outcomes. Three hydroxylated fatty acids with a maximum carbon length of eight were strongly associated with mortality, regardless of HIV status or disease severity.