Comparing how different species respond to immune complexes
Official title: Comparative studies of complement responses to ICs
Funded at Duke University · NIH-10915038 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how the immune system works differently in humans compared to mice and rats, especially when it comes to fighting off infections, and it hopes to find ways to improve treatments for autoimmune diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $201,250 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI175743-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10915038 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with autoimmune conditions or those interested in the immune system's functioning.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to the immune system or those not affected by autoimmune diseases may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the differences in the complement system, which is part of the immune response, between humans and laboratory animals like mice and rats. It focuses on how these species activate the classical pathway of complement activation when exposed to immune complexes formed by antibodies. By analyzing blood and plasma samples from these species, the researchers aim to understand the mechanisms behind these differences and how they affect immune responses. This could lead to better insights into autoimmune conditions and the development of more effective treatments.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of immune responses and lead to improved therapies for autoimmune diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown significant differences in immune responses across species, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Duke University
Durham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Arepally, Gowthami M — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Arepally, Gowthami M
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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.