How CD8 immune cells help or harm skin leishmaniasis
Distinct functions for CD8 T cells in cutaneous leishmaniasis
['FUNDING_R01'] · OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY · NIH-11259536
Researchers are looking at how a type of immune cell (CD8 T cells) can either heal or damage skin sores caused by leishmania parasites to help people with cutaneous leishmaniasis.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (Columbus, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11259536 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This project compares CD8 T cells found in draining lymph nodes with those in skin lesions to understand why some produce helpful IFN-γ while others become cytotoxic and cause tissue damage. Investigators will test how features of the lesion environment — including low oxygen (hypoxia) and inflammatory signals like IL-1β and IL-15 — push CD8 T cells toward harmful behavior. They will use experimental mouse models and tissue or cell samples from patients to track changes in the T cells and the signals that trigger them. The goal is to pinpoint factors that could be targeted to preserve protective responses while preventing the immune-driven damage that makes some infections chronic.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with active cutaneous leishmaniasis skin lesions or a history of chronic nonhealing lesions would be the most relevant candidates to provide samples or take part in related clinical work.
Not a fit: People without cutaneous leishmaniasis (for example, those with other infections or with visceral leishmaniasis) are unlikely to get direct benefit from this lab-focused research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to ways to prevent immune-driven tissue damage in cutaneous leishmaniasis and guide new treatments.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown CD8 T cells can both protect and harm in leishmaniasis, so the concept is supported but the exact tissue triggers remain unproven.
Where this research is happening
Columbus, UNITED STATES
- OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY — Columbus, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: NOVAIS, FERNANDA — OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: NOVAIS, FERNANDA
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.