Exploring how trained immunity can prevent viral infections that cause heart and pancreas issues

Trained immunity in the prevention of viral myocarditis and pancreatitis

NIH-funded research University of Nebraska Lincoln · NIH-10515667

This study is exploring how a special treatment can help boost the immune system to better fight off viral infections, like those caused by Coxsackieviruses, which can lead to heart and pancreas issues, and it's aimed at finding ways to protect people from these infections.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Nebraska Lincoln NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Lincoln, United States)
Project IDNIH-10515667 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the potential of trained immunity to protect against viral infections, specifically those caused by Coxsackieviruses, which can lead to myocarditis and pancreatitis. The team has observed that animals immunized with a specific adjuvant, complete Freund’s adjuvant (CFA), showed complete protection from these viral diseases. The study aims to understand how CFA primes immune cells, particularly macrophages, to enhance the body's antiviral responses. By characterizing these immune responses and the underlying mechanisms, the research seeks to identify effective strategies for preventing enteroviral infections in humans.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for viral myocarditis or pancreatitis, particularly those with a history of enteroviral infections.

Not a fit: Patients who are not at risk for viral infections or those with existing severe heart or pancreatic conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new preventive strategies against viral myocarditis and pancreatitis, potentially reducing the incidence of these serious conditions.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using trained immunity to enhance vaccine responses, suggesting that this approach may be viable for preventing viral infections.

Where this research is happening

Lincoln, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.