Until recently, in developed countries tuberculosis had been virtually eradicated through mass vaccination and treatment with antibiotics. However, there is now great concern over the re-emergence of and global increase in tuberculosis cases. Alarmingly, fuelled by the HIV pandemic, TB has reached epidemic proportions in Africa and rates in the UK have also risen significantly, mainly in the immigrant population.
At the moment, BCG vaccination and antibiotic treatment still represent our only methods to control tuberculosis. Indeed, the last tuberculosis drug was introduced over 40 years ago and current courses of treatment are not easy to follow for patients. This has contributed to the increasing incidence of multi-drug resistant strains of the bacteria that causes TB Mycobacterium tuberculosis). New vaccines and therapies are urgently needed.
Research has shown that people with a particular genetic makeup are more susceptible to TB infection than others. During this study, Dr Newport intends to shed light on exactly which genes are involved. She also hopes to determine how these genetic differences affect our immune system.
If we can understand how our genes affect the way we fight TB, we shall be in a better position to start developing new strategies for treating TB. In addition, we will also be able to identify those people that are most at risk and prescribe the appropriate treatments.
Grant: Project Grant
Duration: 24 months
Amount awarded: £70,470
Relevant disease area(s): tuberculosis
Relevant age group(s): all
