A new method to boost the body's immune response against infections
Official title: Glucan glycomimetics: A new approach to stimulating innate immune training
Funded at East Tennessee State University · NIH-11120880 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how we can help your immune system remember and fight infections better by using a natural substance from fungi called β-glucans, with the hope of creating new treatments that offer longer-lasting protection against illnesses.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | East Tennessee State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Johnson City, United States) |
| Project start | June 18, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $226,500 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI176153-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11120880 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include children and older adults who may have weakened immune systems.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with strong, healthy immune systems may not see significant benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores how the innate immune system can be trained to respond more effectively to infections. It focuses on using β-glucans, which are components of fungal cell walls, to enhance the immune system's ability to remember and fight off pathogens. By developing drugs that harness this 'trained immunity', the goal is to provide broader and longer-lasting protection against various infections. The research aims to overcome challenges associated with the natural extraction of β-glucans, ensuring consistent and effective immune training.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that significantly improve the body's ability to resist infections.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown that β-glucans can effectively induce trained immunity, suggesting a promising avenue for this research.
Where this research is happening
-
East Tennessee State University
Johnson City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Williams, David L. — East Tennessee State University
- Study coordinator: Williams, David L.
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.