How a molecule (DO) controls antibody defenses against viruses
Retroviral infection and new modulators of the MHCII pathway
This project explores whether differences in a molecule called DO influence how well people and animals make strong, virus-fighting antibodies.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11323598 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers found a gene in certain mice that allows them to produce powerful neutralizing antibodies against retroviruses and are following up to understand how that works. They are studying the human versions of this molecule (DOa and DOb) to see if genetic differences relate to outcomes in chronic viral infections like hepatitis B and C. The team uses mouse genetics, lab tests of the MHCII antigen-loading pathway, and analyses of human genetic data and variants. The goal is to identify molecular changes that could be targeted to improve antibody responses to persistent viruses.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with chronic viral infections such as hepatitis B or C, or those willing to provide genetic samples or participate in immune-response studies, would be the most likely candidates for related future studies.
Not a fit: People without viral infections or whose conditions do not involve antibody or antigen-presentation problems are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to ways to help people make stronger neutralizing antibodies against chronic viral infections, potentially improving prevention or treatment options.
How similar studies have performed: Prior mouse genetic studies showed this gene strongly affects antibody responses, but translating those findings into human treatments remains largely untested.
Where this research is happening
Chicago, United States
- University of Chicago — Chicago, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Golovkina, Tatyana V — University of Chicago
- Study coordinator: Golovkina, Tatyana V
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.