Research summary
Tuberculosis (TB) is a significant global health problem. People who have been diagnosed but do not show symptoms have what is called latent TB infection, or LBTI. The World Health Organization has identified LTBI as a significant issue that is undermining global efforts to eliminate the disease.
Dr. Zulma Rueda, Canada Research Chair in Sexually Transmitted Infection – Resistance and Control, is looking for solutions. She and her research team are identifying biomarkers that are present in people who have LTBI. To do this, she and her research team are studying genetic and non-genetic exposure factors in TB patient groups from around the world. Ultimately, these biomarkers will make it possible to identify people who have LTBI so they can be treated before they become ill and infectious.