How a retrovirus affects antibody responses in the immune system
Official title: Manipulation of antibody responses by a retrovirus
Funded at University of Chicago · NIH-11034374 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a virus affects certain immune cells called B cells, which help your body fight infections, to find ways to boost your immune response and improve how your body makes antibodies when you're sick.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | June 17, 2025 |
| Project end | May 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $451,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AI187838-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11034374 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions that compromise their immune response or those who are at risk for infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with fully functioning immune systems and no history of recurrent infections may not receive significant benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how a specific retrovirus, known as the mouse mammary tumor virus, influences the behavior of B cells, which are crucial for producing antibodies that fight infections. By examining how these B cells differentiate into plasma cells and memory B cells, the study aims to understand the mechanisms pathogens use to evade the immune response. The research employs a combination of genetic and immunological techniques to explore the interactions between the virus and the immune system, particularly focusing on antibody production and regulation. Patients may benefit from insights gained about improving antibody responses during infections.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to enhanced strategies for boosting antibody responses in patients, improving their ability to fight infections.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in manipulating immune responses through similar approaches, indicating potential for breakthroughs in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Golovkina, Tatyana V — University of Chicago
- Study coordinator: Golovkina, Tatyana V
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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.