Helping killer T cells fight Chlamydia infections
Cytotoxic T Cell Mediated Immunity to Chlamydia
Researchers are trying to improve killer (CD8) T cell responses to better protect people from repeat Chlamydia trachomatis infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Harvard Medical School NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11143808 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This work uses lab and animal experiments to find out why CD8+ "killer" T cells respond to Chlamydia trachomatis but fail to form strong memory that prevents repeat infections. The team studies immune cells, transfers protective CD8+ cells into mice, and examines how memory responses are suppressed after initial infection. They will test vaccine formulations and delivery approaches, including adjuvants and nanoparticle carriers, to stimulate durable CD8+ T cell protection. Promising findings could guide development of human vaccines or clinical trials to reduce repeat infections and long-term reproductive damage.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with current or past Chlamydia trachomatis infection or those at high risk for infection would be the most likely candidates for future trials based on this work.
Not a fit: Patients with unrelated conditions or those seeking immediate treatment for an active infection are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this basic and preclinical research right now.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could lead to vaccines or immune-based approaches that prevent repeat chlamydia infections and reduce reproductive tract damage.
How similar studies have performed: Animal studies have shown CD8+ T cells can protect against chlamydia, but effective human vaccines remain unproven, so this work builds on promising mouse data while addressing known barriers to memory formation.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Harvard Medical School — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Starnbach, Michael N — Harvard Medical School
- Study coordinator: Starnbach, Michael N
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 below.