Projects

KITT

A global forum to accelerate tuberculosis drug and regimen development

KITT (Knowledge Integration for TB Treatment Development) is a global forum aimed at accelerating tuberculosis (TB) drug and regimen development through innovative collaboration, data sharing, and the coordination of research efforts

The project is a pioneering initiative designed to foster a collaborative environment where global TB research stakeholders can unite their efforts toward a common goal. 

Initiated under the NIH FAST-TB initiative, KITT aims to streamline and accelerate the development of TB drug regimens by creating a structured platform for sharing clinical trial data, innovative trial designs, and emerging research. 

Duration
Duration

3.5 years (2024-2028) (initial term)

Funding

NIH/CRDF

Partners
Partners

30 global institutions and organizations, and growing

About KITT

The project emphasizes the importance of collaboration over competition, seeking to optimize the use of resources and knowledge to achieve faster, more reliable outcomes in TB treatment research. Through thematic working groups, KITT addresses critical scientific questions that can only be solved as a community, supports translational research, and encourages the development of new treatment paradigms. The initiative is structured to evolve and adapt to the changing landscape of TB research, ensuring that its impact remains relevant and significant over time. 

By reducing the duplication of efforts and fostering a culture of open communication, KITT seeks to expedite the development of new TB treatments that are more effective, well-tolerated, and accessible to those who need them most. The initiative focuses on key areas such as innovative trial designs, community engagement, and the standardization of data-sharing practices, all aimed at advancing TB research and ultimately contributing to the eradication of this devastating disease.

How Will KITT Achieve Its Goals?

KITT is structured around several key components that are essential to achieving its ambitious goals:

  • Collaborative Working Groups: KITT establishes specialized working groups that focus on critical aspects of TB research and treatment development. These groups bring together leading experts to tackle scientific challenges, explore innovative trial designs, and develop standardized methodologies that can be applied globally.
  • Data Sharing and Standardization: Central to KITT’s mission is the development of secure, standardized systems for data sharing among partners. By creating a common framework for data management, KITT ensures that valuable insights are accessible to all participants, fostering a collaborative approach to solving complex TB challenges.
  • Community Engagement: Recognizing the importance of involving those directly affected by TB, KITT emphasizes community engagement as a cornerstone of its strategy. By incorporating the perspectives of TB-affected communities, KITT aims to support the develop of treatments that are not only scientifically sound but also aligned with the needs and preferences of patients.
  • Advocacy and Policy Influence: KITT is committed to advocating for increased funding and policy support for TB research. By working closely with regulatory agencies and global health organizations, KITT seeks to create a favorable environment for TB treatment development, ensuring that new therapies can be brought to market more quickly and effectively.

Lygature’s role in KITT:

Lygature plays a critical role in managing this ambitious program, ensuring seamless collaboration and driving the initiative towards its mission of advancing TB research and development in close alignment with the funder, NIH.

Lygature serves as the Program Management Office (PMO), leveraging our extensive experience in managing complex, multi-stakeholder initiatives. Our role includes facilitating the establishment of governance structures, supporting the establishment of information and data-sharing strategies, and ensuring effective communication among all KITT partners. Additionally, we play a pivotal role in supporting the strategic direction of the initiative, overseeing the formation and operation of working groups, and coordinating the efforts of the Steering Committee. By providing expert project management, legal, and communication support, Lygature ensures that KITT operates smoothly, meeting its goals of accelerating TB research and developing innovative treatment solutions.

Project updates


  • Building Momentum in Tuberculosis Research: KITT Kicks-Off

    In September, Lygature colleagues travelled to Annecy, France, for the kick-off of the KITT initiative (Knowledge Integration for TB Treatment Development), which aims to accelerate progress in tuberculosis research. Read more


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