Thembisa

Researchers are evaluating the efficacy, safety, and immune response of MTBVAC, a candidate vaccine against tuberculosis TB, in adolescents and adults aged 14 to 45 years living in regions where TB is common. This Phase 2b study is randomized, double-blind, and placebo-controlled, aiming to compare MTBVAC to a placebo in preventing TB disease, particularly in participants who have tested positive or negative for latent TB infection using IGRA tests. Most participants likely received BCG vaccination in infancy. Participants are assigned to receive a single intradermal dose of MTBVAC at 5x105 CFU or placebo on Study Day 1. Those who test IGRA-positive at baseline are randomized 11 to either MTBVAC or placebo, while IGRA-negative participants are randomized 31. Subgroups of participants will be closely monitored for safety and immune responses, with specific evaluations in selected safety and immunogenicity sub-cohorts. The study also includes follow-up screening for pulmonary TB disease and HIV testing yearly and during suspected TB episodes. During the study, participants will attend regular visits or have contacts to monitor for TB signs and symptoms, with sputum tests performed if TB is suspected. Safety assessments include monitoring adverse events and laboratory tests in sub-cohorts. The main outcome is the protective effect of MTBVAC against bacteriologically confirmed pulmonary TB over 36 months, along with safety and immune response evaluations. Participants diagnosed with TB will be referred for standard treatment, and those who seroconvert for HIV will receive appropriate care. The study runs until March 2028.

Researchers are evaluating the safety and bactericidal activity of TBD09 combined with other drugs in adults with drug-sensitive pulmonary tuberculosis. This Phase 2 randomized trial aims to determine if these combinations are safe and effective for treating this form of tuberculosis. The study is sponsored by the Gates Medical Research Institute and involves multiple treatment groups with varying doses of TBD09. Participants are assigned to one of five groups receiving different combinations of TBD09, bedaquiline, pretomanid, and linezolid. The TBD09 doses vary from 100 mg three times weekly to 500 mg daily, combined with bedaquiline and pretomanid, or linezolid with bedaquiline and pretomanid. Treatment lasts for 28 days in each group. During the study, participants will be monitored through Day 35 for safety, including serious adverse events, treatment-emergent adverse events, and adverse events leading to treatment discontinuation. Researchers will also assess bactericidal activity up to Day 28 and study pharmacokinetics of TBD09. Additional safety evaluations include blood tests, visual and color vision assessments, and peripheral neuropathy screening. The total participation period covers screening, treatment, and follow-up assessments.