A new method to sort immune cells based on how they release signals
Official title: A microfluidic platform for high performance sorting of immune cells based on their distinct secretion patterns
Funded at Northwestern University at Chicago · NIH-11046988 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on a new technology that helps sort immune cells by looking at the special substances they release, which could help us understand how these cells work and lead to better treatments for autoimmune diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | December 9, 2024 |
| Project end | November 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $634,881 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AI181023-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11046988 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with autoimmune conditions who may benefit from advanced therapies targeting immune cell functions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-autoimmune conditions or those not involved in immune cell therapies may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a microfluidic platform that sorts immune cells by analyzing their unique secretion patterns. By examining these patterns at a single-cell level, the study aims to uncover the genetic networks that control immune responses, which are often influenced by signaling molecules. The innovative SECRE technology will enhance the ability to identify key genetic regulators involved in immune cell function, potentially leading to improved drug discovery and therapies for autoimmune conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for autoimmune diseases by improving our understanding of immune cell behavior.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using microfluidic technologies for cell sorting and analysis, indicating that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
Northwestern University at Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kelley, Shana O — Northwestern University at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Kelley, Shana O
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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.