TB Treatment: A recent study has found a new factor for TB, which doctors were not aware of till now

TB Treatment: A recent study has found a new factor for TB, which doctors were not aware of till now. It is expected that there may be a need to change the method of its treatment as well. 

Recent breakthrough research has identified a new gene mutation associated with tuberculosis (TB) risk, making its carriers more susceptible to contracting TB. This discovery has added a new dimension to the understanding of TB.

Researchers at Rockefeller University discovered this new mutation, which increases susceptibility to TB. This research has recently been published in the journal 'Nature'. This mutation can completely change the approach to treatment and prevention of TB.

How TB disease occurs

Researchers found that this mutation causes a deficiency of a protein called tumor necrosis factor (TNF). TNF, previously known as an important inflammatory factor, plays a key role in the immune system's defense against TB. According to the research, a deficiency of TNF affects a specific immune process, leading to severe TB disease.

What the research found

This research, conducted by Stephanie Bisson-Dupuis and Jean-Laurent Casanova of Rockefeller University, has redefined the role of TNF. "Scientific literature over the past 40 years has linked TNF to several inflammatory functions, but apart from defense against TB, its role may be limited," said Casanova.

In this study, scientists found this mutation in two Colombian patients who suffered from severe and recurrent TB infections. Health records of both patients indicated that their immune systems were functioning normally, but they were particularly vulnerable to TB.

The role of mutations

This mutation inactivated the TNF protein, affecting the 'respiratory burst' process in the immune system. This process produces reactive oxygen compounds (ROS) by immune cells, which help destroy pathogens. When ROS are not produced, bacteria like TB have a chance to grow.

Effect on treatment

This discovery has given a new direction in the treatment of TB. TNF inhibitors, which are used to treat autoimmune and inflammatory diseases, can increase the risk of TB. The research clarifies that the lack of TNF disables an important link in immunity against TB. Dr. Bisson-Dupuis said, "It is surprising that the people we are studying are not affected by other infectious diseases, but are particularly vulnerable to TB."