Bill Jacobs, a prominent scientist at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine, is known for illuminating the tuberculosis (TB) bacterium, making it visible to researchers. Two decades ago, he engineered a glowing version of the TB bug, allowing microbiologists to observe the effects of antibiotics on it. However, as Jacobs made significant strides in his research, he faced a personal challenge—he was gradually losing his vision due to retinitis pigmentosa, a genetic disorder that has progressively impaired his eyesight.

Today, Jacobs sees the world in fragmented pieces, reminiscent of looking through a narrow tube. This condition has affected his ability to use a microscope effectively, yet it hasn’t hindered his remarkable contributions to science. In his lab, he relies on adaptive technology and auditory feedback, transforming how he engages with his work. Despite his visual limitations, Jacobs continues to excel, with over 300 published papers and numerous patents to his name.

Raised in Pittsburgh, Jacobs initially aspired to be an astronomer, but his mother’s insistence on being cautious led him to explore other scientific avenues. He gravitated towards bacterial genetics while studying the genetics of leprosy during his graduate studies. His determination and innovative approach eventually led him to focus on TB, a disease that claims over a million lives annually.

The TB bacterium, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, primarily targets the lungs but can also affect other organs. The length of treatment, often ranging from six to nine months, complicates recovery, especially for individuals with compromised immune systems, such as those with HIV. Jacobs recognized the urgent need for new methods to combat TB long before the crisis in South Africa highlighted the severity of the situation.

In the late 1980s, Jacobs envisioned employing bacteriophages—viruses that infect bacteria—to penetrate the TB genome and develop better drugs and diagnostics. An epiphany led him to devise a technique for inserting genes into phages, which would facilitate research on TB. His innovative mindset has since led to breakthroughs in understanding drug resistance and susceptibility.

Years later, Jacobs’ team achieved a significant milestone by incorporating a jellyfish gene that produces green fluorescent protein into their phages. This advancement enhanced visibility, allowing them to observe the bacterium more effectively. Although his phage technology hasn’t yet revolutionized diagnostics in resource-limited settings, Jacobs is optimistic about its potential and the insights it continues to provide into TB.

One of Jacobs’ recent projects involved investigating why some TB cells survive treatment. By engineering a new phage that causes these resilient cells to glow red, his team can now identify and study them more effectively. Their findings revealed that these persister cells are sensitive to oxidative stress, leading to experimental treatments using vitamin C, which showed promising results in eradicating these stubborn bacteria.

Despite his deteriorating eyesight, Jacobs remains undeterred. His passion for science drives him forward, and he continues to collaborate with experts, including ophthalmologist Edwin Stone, to explore potential therapies for his condition. Recent genetic analysis identified a rare mutation linked to his vision loss, prompting research into converting his cells into photoreceptors, offering hope for future restoration of his sight.

As Jacobs navigates life as both a researcher and a subject of scientific inquiry, he reflects on his journey. The prospect of potentially benefiting from research that could reverse his blindness excites him, although he remains realistic about the outcomes. Meanwhile, he continues to push the boundaries of science, embodying resilience in the face of adversity.

In his lab, Jacobs and his team work tirelessly, developing specialized phages aimed at targeting TB directly. When presented with a new batch of petri dishes showcasing the success of their latest innovations, Jacobs radiates enthusiasm. In that moment, despite the challenges he faces, his passion for discovery shines through, illuminating not just the petri dishes, but the future of TB research itself.