The Role of Innate Immune Responses, and of Genetic Determinants of Innate Immune Responses, in BCG Vaccination-induced Protection Against Childhood TB
Type of Study |
Prospective observational study |
Design |
Case control study |
Project Site |
Western Cape, South Africa |
Sample Size |
total 300 subjects |
Population |
150 infants protected and 150 infants non-protected by BCG against subsequent TB disease. Blood was collected in at 10 weeks of age and infants will be followed over the first 4 years of life to identify whom have developed TB disease |
Study Period |
2005-Present
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Goal of Study:
We aim to identify immune correlates of vaccination-induced resistance to subsequent TB disease. We now hypothesize that cells of the innate immune system play a central role in inducing this protection. First, we will compare the function of 2 types of innate immune cells, in peripheral blood of protected and of unprotected children: dendritic cells and monocytes, to characterize the function of these cells and focus on recognition and processing of mycobacterial antigens. Second, we will study polymorphisms in genes that a critical for the innate immune response against TB, comparing protected and in unprotected children.
Objectives of Study:
- To determine whether innate immune cell function correlates with BCG-induced protection against TB
- To assess whether genetic variation within innate immune responses can generate any functional correlates of BCG-induced protection against TB
- To characterize the molecular and cellular mechanisms which underlie and functional and genetic findings made in relation to aims 1 and 2
Research Activities:
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