How antibodies can protect against infections inside cells
Official title: Sialylated antibody defense against intracellular infections
Funded at Cincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr · NIH-11058397 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how special antibodies from mothers can help protect newborns and fetuses from infections, and it aims to find new ways to boost their immune systems for better treatment options.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Cincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cincinnati, United States) |
| Project start | March 19, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $623,086 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI181778-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11058397 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include newborns and fetuses at risk for intracellular infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with fully developed immune systems or those not at risk for intracellular infections may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how sialylated antibodies can provide defense against intracellular infections, particularly in newborns and fetuses. It explores the role of maternal antibodies and their modifications during pregnancy that enhance immune responses. By understanding how these antibodies interact with neonatal B cells, the study aims to uncover new mechanisms of immunity that could lead to improved treatments for infections that are difficult to combat. The research employs advanced immunological techniques to analyze antibody behavior and its effects on immune cell activation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new antibody-based therapies that enhance immune protection against intracellular infections in vulnerable populations like newborns.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding antibody-mediated immunity, but this specific approach focusing on sialylated antibodies is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Cincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr
Cincinnati, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Erickson, John J. — Cincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr
- Study coordinator: Erickson, John J.
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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.