Mentoring Multidisciplinary Research in MDR-TB Adherence and the Emergent Drug Resistance

ABSTRACT Tuberculosis (TB) continues to pose a significant threat to individuals living with HIV, representing a leading cause of mortality worldwide. Despite advancements in treatment, approximately 8.2% of new TB cases globally occur in HIV co-infected persons, with an alarming rise in multidrug-resistant TB (MDR-TB) cases, especially in regions like southern Africa. As a leader in translational research on drug-resistant TB, I am dedicated to mentoring future clinical investigators in patient-oriented research, particularly in the context of HIV treatment. This proposal aims to train a new cadre of researchers equipped with translational, clinical, and behavioral science expertise to address the challenges of MDR-TB within the global HIV epidemic. Leveraging my research experience and current funding, the specific aims of this K24 grant are to investigate baseline and emergent resistance to new TB drugs, optimize MDR-TB HIV treatment by identifying high-risk populations, and characterize pre-existing reservoirs of drug resistance using population genomics. Through innovative approaches integrating clinical, translational, and behavioral science methods, this research aims to fill critical gaps in our understanding of drug-resistant TB management, particularly in HIV-affected populations. A multidisciplinary team with expertise in various fields will provide diverse opportunities for student and trainee involvement. The proposed mentorship-driven research will empower the next generation of patient-oriented researchers to develop effective strategies for combating drug-resistant TB, ultimately improving care outcomes in resource-limited settings.