How fatty acids in diet affect inflammation in immune cells
Official title: The Malate-Aspartate shuttle links dietary fatty acids to inflammatory responses in dendritic cells
Funded at Vanderbilt University Medical Center · NIH-10772912 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how eating a lot of fatty foods might increase inflammation in immune cells that are important for skin conditions like psoriasis, and it aims to help us understand how our diet can affect our skin health and immune system.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $216,272 |
| NIH project number | 7R21AR080233-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10772912 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with psoriasis or those at risk of developing psoriasis, particularly those with dietary habits high in fatty acids.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have psoriasis or related inflammatory conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how diets high in fatty acids can lead to increased inflammation in immune cells, specifically dendritic cells, which play a crucial role in conditions like psoriasis. By examining the metabolic changes that occur in these cells when exposed to fatty acids, the study aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms that link diet to inflammatory responses. The researchers will use mouse models to explore how dietary components influence the production of inflammatory cytokines, particularly IL-23, which is known to exacerbate skin conditions. This work could provide insights into how dietary choices impact immune function and skin health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new dietary recommendations or interventions that help manage or prevent psoriasis and related inflammatory conditions.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that dietary factors can influence inflammation and immune responses, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Vanderbilt University Medical Center
Nashville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mogilenko, Denis — Vanderbilt University Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Mogilenko, Denis
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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.