Creating advanced models to study immune responses using 3D printed tissue systems
Official title: Multi-organ culture and pumping systems for ex vivo models of immunity in hybrid tissue-chips
Funded at University of Virginia · NIH-10890580 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring new 3D printed models that mimic how lymph nodes work with other organs to help us learn more about how our immune system fights infections, responds to vaccines, and deals with tumors, which could lead to better vaccines and treatments for autoimmune diseases and cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project start | July 19, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $464,509 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI174207-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10890580 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions that affect immune responses, such as autoimmune diseases or cancer.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with stable, non-immune related conditions may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing innovative 3D printed microfluidic systems that simulate the interactions between lymph nodes and surrounding organs. By creating these hybrid tissue-chips, researchers aim to better understand how our immune system responds to infections, vaccines, and tumors. The approach involves precise control of fluid flow and circulation of immune cells, allowing for detailed studies of immune function and disease mechanisms. This could lead to improved vaccine designs and therapies for autoimmune diseases and cancer.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of immune responses, leading to better vaccines and treatments for various diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using microfluidic systems for studying immune interactions, indicating potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Virginia
Charlottesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pompano, Rebecca R — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Pompano, Rebecca R
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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.