Creating a special mouse model to study immune responses in asthma and infections
Official title: Generating a novel conditional knockout mouse for a super-enhancer that controls cytokine responsiveness
Funded at University of Connecticut Sch of Med/dnt · NIH-10866590 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a special part of our genes that helps control how our immune cells react to infections and asthma, and by creating a mouse model without this part, researchers hope to learn more about how to improve treatments for asthma and allergies.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Connecticut Sch of Med/dnt NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Farmington, United States) |
| Project start | June 13, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $83,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R03AI172847-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10866590 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals with asthma, allergies, or related immune disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to immune responses or those not affected by asthma or allergies may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a unique genetic element called a super-enhancer that influences how certain immune cells respond to infections and asthma. By using advanced techniques like CRISPR-Cas9, researchers are creating a mouse model that lacks this super-enhancer, allowing them to observe how this change affects immune responses. The study focuses on how specific combinations of cytokines can activate T cells to produce important immune signals, which could lead to better understanding and treatment of conditions like asthma and allergies. Patients may benefit from insights gained about immune function and potential new therapies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for asthma and allergic conditions by enhancing our understanding of immune responses.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in understanding immune responses through genetic manipulation, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Connecticut Sch of Med/dnt
Farmington, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Vella, Anthony T — University of Connecticut Sch of Med/dnt
- Study coordinator: Vella, Anthony T
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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.