Simpler, Faster Diagnostics Could Save Lives and Reduce Overtreatment

1.Tuberculosis: A Deadly but Treatable Disease

In 2023, tuberculosis (TB) killed 1.25 million people worldwide. Despite being curable, TB remains the deadliest infectious disease. Powerful antibiotics can cure 88% of cases globally. However, 12% of patients see the disease return, often because doctors lack tools to confirm a full cure.

2.The Problem with Current TB Treatment

“Right now, doctors use a one-size-fits-all approach,” said Dr. Kayvan Zainabadi, a microbiology expert at Weill Cornell Medicine. Patients take antibiotics for six months, even though 5-10% won’t be cured. Meanwhile, many recover faster but still finish unnecessary treatment. “We need a test to show who is cured and when,” he added.

3.RNA: A Game-Changer for TB Testing

Dr. Zainabadi’s team is developing a test using 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) from TB bacteria. Unlike DNA, RNA breaks down quickly, reducing false positives. “DNA lingers long after cure, but RNA gives real-time clues,” he explained. This method could also detect TB in samples like saliva or urine, avoiding painful procedures for vulnerable groups like children.

4.Global Collaboration for Better Diagnostics

The team partnered with clinics in Haiti, India, and Uganda to test their approach. For example, in Uganda, they’re studying whether saliva or stool samples can replace invasive stomach tube tests for children. With a $350,000 grant, they aim to validate the test’s accuracy and accessibility worldwide.

5.Why This Matters

If successful, the RNA test could:

Shorten treatment for most patients.

Reduce side effects from unnecessary antibiotics.

Speed up drug trials by replacing lengthy cure checks.

Looking Ahead

“Our goal is simple: save lives by giving doctors better tools,” said Dr. Zainabadi. Future studies will confirm if this test can transform TB care globally.

Date:Apr 25 2025

Source:Weill Cornell Medicine