Articles tagged with Tuberculosis
Despite over 100 years of TB vaccine research, only one vaccine has been widely used, and a second is urgently needed to combat the ongoing pandemic. Promising new candidates are now in phase 3 trials, including an adjuvanted subunit vaccine that demonstrated 50% protection against TB infection in a phase II trial.
The AIDS Clinical Trials Group (ACTG) will present 29 presentations at the Conference on Retroviruses and Opportunistic Infections (CROI) 2023. The studies focus on COVID-19, HIV cure, pathogenesis, treatment, long-term complications, tuberculosis, hepatitis C, and contraception.
Researchers have discovered that over-the-counter heartburn drugs can shorten the treatment of tuberculosis (TB) and reduce the chances of drug-resistant bacteria. The findings, published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, may mean TB can be cured with shorter treatments.
Research by University of Cambridge scientists reveals that a rare genetic disorder, Gaucher disease, provides protection against TB due to an unusual fatty chemical that acts as a microbicide. The study suggests that Ashkenazi Jews, who are more susceptible to Gaucher disease, may be less likely to contract TB infection.
A large Dutch study found that the BCG vaccine does not protect elderly people with co-morbidities against COVID-19 symptoms. The study analyzed 6,112 participants and showed no difference in disease manifestations or hospitalizations between those who received the vaccine and those who received a placebo.
Researchers investigated TB screening effectiveness in Germany and globally, finding mandatory programs may increase participation but don't deliver better results. Voluntary programs are considered more effective, ethically and legally justifiable.
Research suggests that a new combination of drugs is needed to find an effective treatment for TB meningitis due to multidrug-resistant strains. The FDA-approved BPaL regimen is not effective in treating TB meningitis because bedaquiline and linezolid cannot penetrate the blood-brain barrier.
A new study suggests TB vaccination could be overall cost-effective in 73 of 105 low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), with potential economic benefits of US $474 billion by 2050. The modeling study, published in PLOS Medicine, found that vaccination could save billions of dollars annually.
The January issue of the CHEST journal features a range of clinically relevant research on COPD, bronchiectasis, and pulmonary vascular disease. The journal's education portal offers continuing medical education (CME) credit for select articles.
Researchers found that vitamin D strengthens immune cells' ability to fight tuberculosis by producing cathelicidin toxin. Vitamin D treatment can prevent and treat the disease, particularly in populations exposed to high risk of infection. However, supplements do not protect against infection with tuberculosis.
Researchers at the University of Cincinnati found a link between latent tuberculosis infection and increased inflammation in monocytes, a type of white blood cell. This connection may contribute to a higher risk of cardiovascular disease in individuals with LTBI.
A UMass Amherst microbiologist is working to develop new treatments for tuberculosis by targeting the bacteria's surface structure. The goal is to create a drug that can disrupt the cell envelope, making the bacteria vulnerable to attack.
Researchers at Rutgers University have developed a novel genome assembly tool called Bact-Builder that creates an improved genome map of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. This breakthrough enables the identification of new genes and gene fragments missing in current reference sequences, which could lead to better treatments and vaccines.
A new study published in Clinical Infectious Diseases found that severe undernutrition before and during TB treatment significantly increases the risk of death, treatment failure, and relapse. Researchers from Boston University School of Medicine followed nearly 3,000 persons with TB disease for two years and recorded data on demograph...
Researchers used microCT to create a 3D atlas of lung lesions in TB and COVID-19, revealing complex shapes and hidden pathological structures. The study provides new insights into the microscopic anatomy of these deadly diseases.
A new study found that vulnerable populations, including children, older individuals, and men, faced significant challenges in accessing TB diagnoses due to COVID-19 disruptions. The research emphasizes the need for targeted interventions to address these inequalities and ensure equitable access to TB care.
Researchers identify unique chemical signal allowing ancient TB bacteria to evade immune system and spread beyond lungs. The 'mobile factor', called EsxM, allows the bacteria to infect macrophages more easily, leading to bone infections in six people.
A new AI technology has been developed to automatically diagnose lung diseases such as tuberculosis and pneumonia, freeing up radiographers and reducing waiting times for test results. The system, which uses X-ray imaging and deep learning algorithms, achieved a 98% accuracy rate during extensive testing.
Researchers developed a fast and cost-effective method to detect amphiphiles, a ubiquitous family of chemical compounds used in disease diagnosis and toxin detection. The new test uses rolling droplets on microstructured surfaces to detect levels of pathogenic endotoxins in water at ultralow concentrations.
Researchers have discovered that mutations in mitochondrial-related genes can trigger hyperinflammation, leading to diseases such as Crohn's disease and tuberculosis. The study found that these mutations lead to a new type of cell death called necroptosis, which causes an aggressive inflammatory immune response.
Two nonprofit research organizations partner to create new TB vaccine candidates with diverse adjuvant technologies and genetically diverse mouse models. The team aims to develop thermostable vaccines that can last for several months at room temperature or years in standard refrigerators.
Researchers identified PtpB as a key effector that inhibits inflammasome-pyroptosis pathways in Mtb. The phosphatase activity of PtpB targets and dephosphorylates host membrane phospholipids, preventing GSDMD-mediated immune responses and promoting pathogen survival.
A new testing method for tuberculosis may make diagnosis easier by using saliva instead of sputum, which can be unpleasant and impractical. The method has shown high sensitivity in detecting the bacteria that causes TB, but its effectiveness in people with HIV is less clear.
People living with HIV are at high risk of tuberculosis infection and disease, yet many questions remain unanswered about developing an effective TB vaccine. The NIH/DAIDS Cross-Network calls for their inclusion in clinical trials to prioritize access to safe and effective TB vaccines.
Researchers have discovered a novel antimicrobial compound, evybactin, that selectively targets Mycobacterium tuberculosis, a bacteria that causes tuberculosis. This breakthrough could lead to the development of new treatments for tuberculosis without contributing to antibiotic resistance.
Researchers at La Jolla Institute for Immunology have discovered a rare T cell defect tied to the risk of developing MAC disease. People with this defect have fewer specialized Th1* cells, which robs them of an effective immune response to MAC bacteria.
Using artificial intelligence, researchers from Tufts University have devised rules for faster and more effective identification of potential new drug cocktails against tuberculosis. The study developed a set of design principles to assemble drug combinations, reducing the amount of testing needed before moving to further study.
Researchers developed an AI system that can quickly and automatically evaluate chest X-rays for TB using deep learning. Analysis showed the system was comparable to radiologists for determining active TB on chest X-rays, with similar performance across different patient subgroups. The system has the potential to aid screening in areas ...
Researchers at Texas Biomed have developed a modified tuberculosis vaccine that can treat non-muscle invasive bladder cancer without strong side effects. The delipidated vaccine triggers well-regulated immune responses and reduces inflammation, making it more effective than traditional treatments.
A recent study suggests that the BCG vaccine is effective in preventing tuberculosis (TB) in children under 5 years old. However, adolescents and adults may require additional protection to maintain immunity beyond childhood. The researchers emphasize the need for booster vaccinations and new TB vaccines to supplement the BCG vaccine.
A massive analysis of over 10,000 Mycobacterium tuberculosis isolates revealed new genes associated with resistance to 13 antibiotics. The study provides a comprehensive framework for understanding the genetic mechanisms of resistance and identifying diagnostic gaps.
Researchers at UNC School of Medicine developed a long-acting injectable formulation of the anti-TB drug rifabutin, showing efficacy in animal models and potential to improve adherence to medication. The formulation could provide an effective way to prevent TB infection and treatment failure.
A new study has shown that the TB vaccine can produce a long-lasting 'trained immunity response' in infants, lasting more than 14 months after vaccination. The research found that the BCG vaccine's off-target effects on the immune system can lead to reprogramming of genes in a specific blood cell type, known as monocytes.
The new tuberculosis vaccine candidate VPM1002 shows its safety and efficacy in a study of HIV-exposed and non-HIV-exposed newborns. The vaccine has fewer side effects compared to the existing BCG vaccine, and elicits a similar immune response.
Researchers at Nanyang Technological University in Singapore have developed a series of chemical-based compounds that could be potential drug candidates for treating pulmonary tuberculosis. The compounds were licensed by US-based Neuro-Horizon Pharma LLC for commercialization.
Researcher Helen Zgurskaya is working on discovering new therapeutic treatments for tuberculosis, a leading cause of infectious disease worldwide. Her team has found that certain inhibitors can abolish the transport activity of MmpL3 and its analogs by inhibition of proton translocation.
Researchers have designed a new vaccine candidate using bacterial vesicles coated on gold nanoparticles to deliver antigens and stimulate an immune response against tuberculosis. The use of outer membrane vesicles has shown promise in inducing a better immune response compared to traditional subunit vaccines.
A machine learning model has been developed to predict TB resistance to fluoroquinolones, which could speed up treatment. The model uses demographic and clinical factors to estimate the probability of resistance, allowing clinicians to optimize treatment regimens before test results are available.
Researchers from Dartmouth's Geisel School of Medicine found a significant rate of new TB infections among Tanzanian adolescents. The study used serial testing and identified transient, persistent, and irregular conversions between positive and negative IGRA test results.
A new study has found that a medication used to treat multidrug-resistant tuberculosis is associated with favourable pregnancy outcomes and high treatment success. The study examined the experiences of 275 pregnant women living with multidrug-resistant tuberculosis in five countries, finding that 73.2% gave birth to healthy babies.
Researchers discovered how Mycobacterium tuberculosis can evolve efficiently by forming complex biofilms due to genetic mutations. The study sheds light on the bacterium's robustness and identifies potential vulnerabilities for developing more effective treatments.
A new class of antibiotics has been discovered that is highly effective against drug-resistant tuberculosis, with low toxicity and a high level of safety. The new drugs, called PPs, are targeted at the PE_PGRS57 gene and show promise as an alternative to current treatments.
Researchers at the University of Virginia Health System have made important discoveries on the crucial role of malnutrition in global tuberculosis, highlighting how gut infections impair treatment outcomes. A new funding partnership will train Tanzanian postdoctoral researchers to work specifically on this intersection.
Researchers discovered that adaptive immune response against TB matures over time, with key players in immunity becoming activated by three months after infection. The emergence of these activated T cells is inversely correlated with the number of granuloma-contained live bacteria, suggesting they play critical roles in bacterial control.
Researchers at the University of Alabama at Birmingham have discovered a gene essential for siderophore secretion in Mycobacterium tuberculosis, a key process for acquiring iron. The discovery validates siderophore secretion as a drug target for tuberculosis treatment and reveals a new mechanism for putative drugs.
Researchers at San Diego State University have identified rare genetic markers in M. tuberculosis that could improve early detection of drug-resistant strains of the disease, helping prevent their spread. These markers may help block common TB drugs from interfering with the pathogen's ability to synthesize proteins.
New anti-tuberculosis treatment strategies and drug development have made progress, but big challenges remain, including latent TB and the COVID-19 pandemic impact. The authors see promise in prioritizing drug combinations and accelerating approval of shorter treatment regimens.
Researchers have identified helpful and unhelpful aspects of the immune response that determine whether TB infections can be kept under control. The findings may help design a more effective vaccine by targeting specific cell subsets and modulating intercellular signaling.
Researchers studied two strains of Mycobacterium tuberculosis with different lung attack mechanisms, finding that high-transmission strains trigger granulomas that may aid bacterial escape into the airways. In contrast, low-transmission strains cause inflammation that traps bacteria, reducing transmissibility.
The NIH has awarded grants to four institutions to establish Tuberculosis Research Advancement Centers, which will provide focused mentoring, funding support, and training opportunities for new investigators. The centers aim to develop a next-generation of tuberculosis researchers and alleviate the global burden of TB through research.
A recent study identified two main subtypes of tuberculosis based on immune response to the infection. One subtype has a better prognosis and could improve treatment options, while another has a higher risk of treatment failure and death.
Researchers at Hiroshima University discovered that pathogenic mycobacteria, such as Mycobacterium tuberculosis, attach to and multiply within human red blood cells. This interaction may play a role in the spread of lung diseases like tuberculosis.
Researchers discovered that mice infected with tuberculosis are resistant to developing COVID-19, suggesting a potential protective effect against the virus. The findings may explain why double infections of both diseases are rare in humans and contribute to the high rates of infection for each disease individually.
A $4.76 million grant will support the evaluation of TB preventative treatment in six countries. The initiative aims to measure the impact of this life-saving treatment on reducing TB disease and mortality among people living with HIV.
The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a setback in global efforts to meet SDG targets for tackling tuberculosis. TB mortality plateaued in Europe between 2019 and 2020, likely due to disruptions in essential TB services. Researchers highlight the need for continued commitment and investments to prevent further progress being reversed.
The Interdisciplinary NexGen TB Research Advancement Center will provide a world-class training program for the next generation of TB researchers, leveraging expertise and facilities across Texas Biomed and South Texas. The center aims to ensure diverse skills and real-world experience to effectively tackle this challenging disease.
Researchers develop novel therapeutic approach for treating tuberculosis using phosphatase inhibitors, offering potential benefits for TB research and basic biology exploration. The discovery provides a promising alternative to traditional antibiotic-based treatments and has significant implications for combating antimicrobial resistance.
A Johns Hopkins study shows that a higher dose of the antibiotic rifampin may be more effective in treating TB meningitis, potentially leading to improved patient outcomes. The research suggests that high doses of rifampin can kill bacteria faster while minimizing brain inflammation.
Researchers at Texas Biomedical Research Institute have found that adding an antibody to the widely-used TB vaccine significantly improves its long-term effectiveness. The combination of the vaccine and an IL-10 blocker allows for better control of TB infection in mice, with improved lung health and increased memory immune cells.
Analyses of ancient TB genomes from coastal Peru and inland Colombian Andes sites reveal a marine-associated strain of the pathogen that suggests a zoonosis from seals. The findings support a complex distribution network for TB on land, with trade networks potentially playing a key role in transporting the pathogen.