How donor DNA affects immune responses in blood stem cell transplants
Donor DNMT3a-mediated regulation of Graft-vs-Host-Disease and the Graft-vs-Tumor effect in allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation
This study is looking at how changes in DNA from donor cells can affect the immune system during stem cell transplants, with the goal of finding better ways to help patients with serious cancers avoid complications while still fighting the disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11073092 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of donor DNA methylation in regulating immune responses during allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (allo-HCT). By studying mice with specific genetic modifications, the research aims to understand how changes in DNA can influence the balance between beneficial anti-tumor effects and harmful graft-vs-host disease (GVHD). The approach includes advanced techniques like whole genome bisulfite sequencing and RNA sequencing to analyze the immune response at a molecular level. This could lead to new strategies for improving transplant outcomes for patients with aggressive malignancies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients undergoing allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation for aggressive cancers or certain non-malignant disorders.
Not a fit: Patients who are not candidates for allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation or those with conditions unrelated to GVHD or GVT effects may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved therapies that enhance anti-tumor immunity while reducing the risk of graft-vs-host disease in transplant patients.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of DNA methylation in immune responses, suggesting that this approach could yield significant insights.
Where this research is happening
Baltimore, United States
- Johns Hopkins University — Baltimore, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ktena, Yiouli — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Ktena, Yiouli
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.