Indian scientists have made a groundbreaking discovery in the fight against tuberculosis (TB). Researchers at the Institute of Life Sciences (ILS), Bhubaneswar, in collaboration with two other research organizations, have identified a host protein that has the potential to combat severe bacterial infections, including tuberculosis.

With India aiming to eliminate TB by 2025, this breakthrough could pave the way for the development of a host-directed therapy, offering a promising approach to tackle drug-resistant TB and significantly reduce its prevalence.

Tuberculosis, caused by the bacteria Mycobacterium tuberculosis, primarily affects the lungs and remains one of the world's leading infectious killers, claiming the lives of 1.5 million people annually.

The study focused on the host protein nuclear receptor corepressor-1 (NCoR1), which plays a crucial role in controlling the growth of TB in lung myeloid cells by regulating their ability to eliminate the bacteria.

The researchers observed that the expression of NCoR1 is compromised during active tuberculosis infection, but is restored with prolonged anti-mycobacterial therapy. By manipulating the protein's level, they found it to be a potential candidate for host-directed therapy.

Initial tests conducted on mice models and human primary cells showed promising results. By removing NCoR1 from immune cells, the researchers observed a decrease in the immune system's activity and reduced ability to fight infections.

Further research will focus on understanding how the bacteria hijacks the NCoR1 protein, its signaling mechanisms, and exploring methods to increase its level. The scientists also plan to test the protein on lung cells of TB-infected individuals.

This significant discovery opens new avenues for developing innovative treatments against tuberculosis and offers hope for millions of people affected by this infectious disease.