Blocking the iron transport could stop tuberculosis
Researchers identified a protein responsible for transporting iron into bacteria that causes tuberculosis. Inhibiting this transport process could lead to new drug targets and novel treatments.
Tuberculosis
Articles tagged with Tuberculosis
Tuberculosis bacterium uses sluice to import vitamins
Scientists discovered a novel transport protein in TB bacteria that imports vitamin B12 and bleomycin with a large water-filled cavity. This non-selective transporter may be common in bacteria and human cells, offering new insights into tuberculosis physiology and potential treatment strategies.
SLAC researcher discovers giant cavity in key tuberculosis molecule
Researchers at SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory have discovered a giant cavity in a protein that transports a wide range of molecules, including vitamin B12 and antibiotics, into the bacterial cell. The discovery could lead to new ways to treat tuberculosis, but further studies are needed to understand the protein's capabilities.
Underweight diabetic patients in Singapore have increased risk of tuberculosis
A study by Singapore researchers found that underweight diabetics have an eight-fold increase in risk of contracting active TB compared to obese individuals. The study highlights the importance of early diagnosis and targeted screening for this vulnerable population.
Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde -- Enzyme targeted by TB antibiotic later stops the drug destroying it
Researchers found that a key TB antibiotic can't irreversibly inhibit an enzyme, instead allowing it to function again through hydrolysis. This discovery could lead to the development of improved versions of the drug and new treatments for antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
Control of the fatty acid synthase
Researchers discovered a protein called gamma subunit that controls fatty acid synthase function in mycobacteria, allowing for the inhibition of pathogen proliferation without affecting human cells. This breakthrough could lead to new therapeutic approaches against tuberculosis and provide insights into cancer treatment.
Study: Cough that spreads tuberculosis has pain-linked trigger
Researchers at the University of Texas at Dallas identified a molecule that induces coughing in tuberculosis patients, providing a potential target for treatment and prevention. The discovery could help reduce the spread of TB, which kills over 1.3 million people worldwide annually.
Study: Tuberculosis bacteria trigger cough, facilitating spread
Tuberculosis bacteria produce a molecule called sulfolipid-1 (SL-1) that triggers coughing in infected animals and human cells, facilitating the spread of disease. The findings could lead to new treatments to prevent tuberculosis transmission.
Porin-like proteins sneak nutrients through Mycobacterium tuberculosis' waxy defensive walls
A family of porin-like proteins helps M. tuberculosis acquire essential nutrients while evading antibiotics and immune attacks. Researchers discovered the unique role of PE/PPE proteins in ferrying vital nutrients across the cell's waxy wall.
Hydrogen sulfide heightens disease in tuberculosis, suggesting a new therapeutic target
Research led by Andries Steyn found that Mtb bacteria induce increased hydrogen sulfide production in human macrophages, increasing pathogenesis and virulence. The study suggests that targeting hydrogen sulfide production may be useful for managing tuberculosis and other microbial infections.
New tool for an old disease: Use of PET and CT scans may help develop shorter TB treatment
Researchers developed a noninvasive imaging technique to monitor rifampin levels in TB patients. The dynamic 11C-rifampin PET/CT tool successfully tracked the movement of the tagged drug into lesions and cavities, revealing low penetration rates that can change over time.
Research identifies how new cancer treatments can activate tuberculosis infection
Researchers at the University of Southampton have identified a potential link between new cancer treatments and tuberculosis. The study found that immune checkpoint inhibitors can lead to an excessive immune response, increasing the growth of bacteria that cause TB disease.
Recent advances in addressing tuberculosis give hope for future
Recent advances in TB diagnostics, treatments and prevention offer hope for reducing and ultimately eliminating the burden of tuberculosis. The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases has made significant progress in improving TB diagnostics, therapeutic regimens and prevention approaches.
ERA4TB to accelerate the development of comprehensive treatments against tuberculosis
The ERA4TB project aims to develop comprehensive treatments against tuberculosis by adopting a parallel development pathway that allows for simultaneous research of multiple potentially effective molecules. This approach will significantly reduce the time taken developing new combined treatments needed to eradicate TB.
Immune responses to tuberculosis mapped across 3 species
A new study maps TB immune responses in diverse models including genetically diverse mice and blood samples from adolescents with TB. The study reveals similarities and differences between human, mouse, and macaque responses, providing valuable insights for developing effective therapies.
100 years after development, TB vaccines vary in ability to stimulate immune components
Commonly used TB vaccines differ significantly in live bacteria content and cytokine responses, sparking concerns about their equivalence. The study highlights the need for a large-scale clinical trial to standardize BCG vaccine formulations.
'Lethal' mutation made tuberculosis bacteria resistant to important antibiotic
Researchers discovered that a 'frameshift mutation' in TB bacteria's RpoB gene makes them resistant to rifampicin. The mutation suppresses the effect of the frameshift, allowing the bacteria to survive and thrive.
Blood test for eight gene signatures can predict onset of tuberculosis
A blood test using eight gene signatures can predict the onset of tuberculosis three to six months before symptoms appear. This finding could help target antibiotics and save lives, particularly by identifying individuals at risk of developing TB disease after being infected with the bacteria.
A new effort to tackle tuberculosis
Researchers at the University of Dundee are working on a new effort to tackle tuberculosis, identifying new treatment options for the disease. With a $3 million grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, they aim to improve drug discovery and develop new candidate drugs to treat TB.
Changed route of immunization dramatically improves efficacy of TB vaccine
Researchers found that intravenous BCG vaccination significantly increased protection against TB in rhesus macaques. The study showed that IV BCG elicited strong, sustained T cell responses in the lungs, leading to a high degree of protection against infection and disease.
Delivering TB vaccine intravenously dramatically improves potency, study shows
A new study found that delivering the TB vaccine intravenously dramatically improves its potency, offering nearly full protection against TB in monkeys. The vaccine was highly effective when administered via injection into a vein, reducing bacterial burden by 100,000-fold and inflammation in lungs to near zero.
Compound in green tea plant shows potential for fighting TB, finds NTU-led research team
A compound in green tea has been shown to inhibit the growth of tuberculosis-causing bacteria by disrupting energy production. The discovery could lead to the development of new drugs to combat multi-drug resistant TB.
New animal model shows effective treatment for latent tuberculosis
A new animal model has successfully treated latent tuberculosis (TB) using a three-month course of antibiotics, showing almost complete sterilization of bacteria. This breakthrough could lead to shorter treatment regimens and improved prevention of reactivation.
New treatment to tackle drug-resistant strains of TB could now be possible
Researchers have identified the source of nitrogen in host blood cells that enables TB to grow and spread. Preventing access to this nitrogen could halt the disease in humans.
Improving tuberculosis screening in remote areas
The TB TRIAGE+ project aims to improve early access to diagnosis and treatment for tuberculosis patients in remote areas by assessing novel active case finding strategies. A large-scale cluster-randomized clinical trial will test automated chest x-ray analysis and blood marker triage tests, aiming to reduce diagnostic costs.
Startup developing AI for TB detection; secures federal business innovation grant
Diascopic LLC is developing an AI-powered diagnostic platform for detecting tuberculosis (TB) using digital pathology tools. The platform has shown promising results in five African clinical locations, securing $225,000 in Small Business Innovation Research funding from the National Institute of Health.
How an AI solution can design new tuberculosis drug regimens
A University of Michigan AI solution, INDIGO, can predict how current drugs can be combined to create more effective tuberculosis treatments. The tool identified several strong combinations, including those with antipsychotics and antimalarials.
Unlocking the secrets of badger dispersal to minimize the spread of bovine TB
Researchers at Trinity College Dublin have discovered that only 17% of badgers disperse from their home territories, with females traveling long distances in search of new habitats. Understanding this behavior is crucial for implementing effective vaccination programs to limit TB transmission.
New clinical guideline for the treatment and prevention of drug-resistant tuberculosis
The American Thoracic Society has published a new clinical guideline for the treatment and prevention of drug-resistant tuberculosis, emphasizing the use of all-oral regimens. The guideline also recommends treatment for all contacts of MDR-TB patients and provides evidence-based guidance for pregnant women with MDR-TB.
CSU lands $1.2 million in NIH funding to advance work on a new tuberculosis vaccine
Researchers at Colorado State University aim to create a new and improved TB vaccine, which has shown strong immune response in early-stage clinical trials. The project will include a multidisciplinary team of over 20 researchers and scientists to better understand the immune responses required for protection against TB.
Boosting host immune defenses to treat tuberculosis
Researchers discovered that enhancing RNA sensor activities can inhibit Mtb growth and increase production of interferon and IFITM3, key elements of the immune response against tuberculosis. A repurposed antiparasitic drug called nitazoxanide may complement traditional regimens by boosting host defenses.
Immune system targets vitamin B12 pathway to neutralize bacteria
Researchers discovered that itaconate, a compound produced by the immune system, tricks Mtb into using propionate as a growth source. This reaction produces a stable biradical that lingers for over an hour, enabling researchers to grow crystals of the enzyme and understand its mechanism.
Collaboration with Texas Biomed, SwRI and UT Health San Antonio targets bladder cancer
A modified Mycobacterium bovis Bacillus Calmette et Guérin (BCG) vaccine, dubbed dBCG, has been shown to be safer and more effective than traditional BCG therapy for bladder cancer. The new approach involves injecting dBCG directly into bladder cancer tumors to reduce recurrence and progression of the disease.
Using whole-genome sequencing for early identification and containment of AMR pathogens
A recent study uses whole-genome sequencing to understand the evolutionary history of an XDR-TB strain that emerged in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. The research identifies key factors contributing to its spread, including HIV coinfection and human migration, highlighting the importance of early detection and containment strategies.
Tuberculous infection is not life-long in most people
Researchers from Penn-led study suggest that tuberculous infection is rarely life-long and that 90% of infected people will not develop active TB. The study found that immunological memory to the disease can outlast elimination of infection, making it difficult to detect those at risk.
NIH contract to CWRU, UH to accelerate TB vaccine development
Researchers will study immune responses needed to prevent initial infection, establish latent infection, and transition to active TB, with a global footprint.
Rapid triage test sniffs out active tuberculosis infections in adults
A rapid triage test can distinguish active TB from similar diseases in adults, potentially helping to diagnose cases in vulnerable populations such as those with HIV. The ultra-sensitive immunoassay screens for four blood proteins and achieved sensitivity and specificity of 86% and 69%, respectively.
Anti-arthritis drug also stops tuberculosis bacillus from multiplying in blood stem cells
Researchers discovered a way to stop the process that allows TB bacillus to infect and hijack blood stem cells using an anti-arthritis drug, Tocilizumab. The study found that this transformation can be halted by administering the drug.
Tuberculosis: New insights into the pathogen
Researchers deciphered the molecular architecture of Mycobacterium tuberculosis nanomachines, shedding light on their role in fighting immune defense and bacterial survival. The findings provide a crucial basis for developing novel antibiotics targeting these systems.
CNIO and University of Wurzburg solve 3D structure of 'nanomachine' that makes tuberculosis virulent
Researchers at CNIO and the University of Würzburg have solved the 3D structure of the T7SS nanomachine used by Mycobacterium tuberculosis to evade the immune system. This finding provides crucial information for developing new therapeutic strategies against tuberculosis, a disease that kills over 1.6 million people worldwide each year.
Badger behavior inside the cull zone
A study by ZSL and Imperial College London found that badgers covered 61% more land each month after a population was culled. Surviving badgers visited 45% more fields and increased the odds of visiting neighboring territories, potentially increasing TB transmission risk to both cattle and other badgers.
Ingestible sensor allows patients to be independent but still supported during TB treatment
A randomized controlled trial demonstrates Wirelessly Observed Therapy (WOT) superior to directly observed therapy (DOT) in boosting TB treatment adherence, with all patients cured and preferring WOT. The novel technology allows for private medication taking while preserving patient autonomy and enabling targeted treatment support.
In women with HIV, TB preventive therapy poses greater risk in pregnancy than postpartum
A clinical trial found that isoniazid preventive therapy during pregnancy increases the risk of poor health outcomes and death for fetuses and newborns. In contrast, deferring treatment until after delivery was safer, with no significant difference in risks.
Texas Biomed awarded $2.8 Million NIH grant for novel TB research
Researchers at Texas Biomedical Institute are studying lung macrophages and their role in TB infection, with the goal of developing a new set of biological pathways critical to the body's response. The findings could lead to a new strategy for host-directed therapy and potentially cure TB.
NIH awards contracts to advance tuberculosis immunology research
The NIH has awarded contracts to establish three new centers for immunology research to accelerate progress in TB vaccine development. The program aims to develop a comprehensive understanding of the immune responses required to prevent TB infection and disease.
Wild African buffalo provide key insights into the genetics of TB resistance
Researchers discovered genetic regions linked to TB resistance in African buffalos, highlighting the complex interplay between host immune responses and disease spread. The study's findings suggest a trade-off between fitness and disease resistance, with potential implications for wildlife management.
Science snapshots: Messenger proteins, new TB drug, artificial photosynthesis
Scientists have identified thousands of novel messenger proteins in human microbiomes, which could lead to new medicines. A new TB drug has been approved, offering hope for treatment-resistant forms of the disease.
Texas Biomed researchers pinpoint why HIV patients are more likely to develop tuberculosis
Researchers at Texas Biomedical Institute have discovered that lung-specific chronic immune activation is responsible for the progression of disease in HIV patients. This dysfunction leads to a constant production of cytokines and chemokines, dysregulating the body's ability to fight off other infections.
Tuberculosis mutation discovery paves way for better treatments
A Rutgers New Jersey Medical School study has found a genetically tractable cause of drug tolerant tuberculosis, paving the way for researchers to develop new drugs. The reversible mutations in the M.tuberculosis glpK gene produce a transient form of tolerance that disappears after treatment withdrawal.
A tech intervention to tame tuberculosis
A digital program created by MIT researchers in collaboration with Keheala helped 4% of tuberculosis patients complete their treatment, compared to 13% in a control group. The interactive platform used behavioral-science insights and daily messages to motivate patients and reduce nonadherence.
Exciting new vaccine targets killer disease TB
Researchers have developed a new type of vaccine targeting tuberculosis, providing substantial protection against the deadly disease. The early-stage vaccine was shown to be effective in pre-clinical laboratory settings and demonstrated its ability to stimulate the immune response in the lungs.
The Lancet Public Health: US TB rates in young people are declining but disparities persist
Tuberculosis cases among children and adolescents in the USA have almost halved within a decade, yet stark differences exist in incidence rates between different groups. Disparities persist despite successful overall burden reduction, with higher rates found in indigenous populations, US islands, and children born outside the USA.
TB technologies seek to help millions of patients around the world
A €4.5 million project, ARREST-TB aims to develop affordable, accurate diagnosis of TB in resource-limited settings. The technology will enable precise treatments and limit disease propagation.
Antacid helps tuberculosis bacteria to survive
Researchers discovered Mycobacterium tuberculosis produces a unique type of antacid that prevents phagosomes from fusing with lysosomes, allowing the bacteria to survive. The mechanism involves the production of 1-tuberculosinyladenosine, an acid that reduces acidity and hinders immune cell digestion.
Thermally stable TB vaccine closer to reality thanks to microscopic silica cages
Researchers have achieved a major breakthrough in developing a thermally stable TB vaccine using a technique called ensilication, which protects vaccine components from heat damage. This innovation has the potential to improve the effectiveness and accessibility of vaccines globally, particularly in remote areas.
Nordic researchers: A quarter of the world's population at risk of developing tuberculosis
A new study from Nordic researchers estimates that approximately one in four people globally carry the tuberculosis bacterium, increasing the challenge of meeting the World Health Organization's target to eliminate TB by 2035. The study suggests that treating latent TB is crucial to prevent active disease and death from the infection.
Unmasking the hidden burden of tuberculosis in Mozambique
A post-mortem study in a Mozambican hospital reveals that tuberculosis (TB) cases were often missed by clinicians and traditional autopsy methods. The study found that 28% of patients had the disease at the time of death, with a higher prevalence among HIV-positive adults.
New study reveals how TB bacteria may survive in human tissues
A new study reveals that Mycobacterium tuberculosis can use carbon monoxide to survive inside the human host. This discovery could pave the way for new strategies to fight communicable diseases like TB.
First impressions go a long way in the immune system
Researchers developed an algorithm that analyzes immune cell responses to predict disease onset and progression. The algorithm uses 'first impressions' from early interactions between immune cells and bacteria to identify patterns that can be applied to real-time blood tests.
New tuberculosis tests pave way for cow vaccination programs
A new skin test can accurately differentiate between cattle infected with tuberculosis (TB) and those that have been vaccinated against the disease. This breakthrough has significant implications for reducing TB transmission from cattle to humans through unpasteurized milk or co-habitation with infected animals.