How early life exposure to microbes affects immune cell development
Official title: Early life regulation of microbiota specific thymic T cell development
Funded at University of Utah · NIH-10975372 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how being around different germs early in life can help your immune system develop better, which might protect you from asthma and allergies, and it uses animal models to learn how gut bacteria help move immune cells to where they’re needed.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Utah NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Salt Lake City, United States) |
| Project start | November 7, 2022 |
| Project end | October 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $792,545 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI173406-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10975372 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are young individuals under 21 years old, particularly those at risk for asthma or allergic conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are already diagnosed with severe autoimmune diseases or those over 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how early life exposure to microbial environments influences the development of specific immune cells in the thymus, which may help protect against conditions like asthma and allergies. The study uses animal models to explore the mechanisms by which intestinal microbes and their signals promote the migration of immune cells from the gut to the thymus. By understanding these processes, the research aims to uncover how a diverse microbiota can support proper immune function and reduce susceptibility to autoimmune diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing asthma and other allergic conditions by enhancing immune system development in early life.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of microbiota in immune development, suggesting that this approach could yield significant insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Utah
Salt Lake City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bettini, Matthew — University of Utah
- Study coordinator: Bettini, Matthew
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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.