Enhance TB Sequel: additional support for TBSequel to address the challenges and additional costs associated with the new global pandemic situation caused by SARS-CoV 2.

Sub-project of Prof. Schaible's working group at the FZB is located in work package 3. The focus of this work package is the integration of new research questions that investigate the influence of an additional SARS-Cov 2 infection in an existing TB disease. Both diseases place a considerable burden on lung function, mainly due to the inflammatory processes in the lungs caused by the pathogens. It is planned to examine plasma samples from TB patients with or without SARS-Cov 2 infection for the presence of 300 inflammation-relevant proteins (O-linked arrays) or in a multi-cytokine array for the presence of inflammation-relevant cytokines such as Th17 factors or type I interferons. Patient samples will be collected at all TBSequel partner institutes. It is expected that markers (plasma proteins or cytokines) will be found that are related to the degree of recovery of lung function after TB therapy.