How glutamine affects the development of immune cells called dendritic cells
Official title: Role of glutamine metabolism in Dendritic Cell Development
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-10914888 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how glutamine, a type of nutrient, affects the growth of important immune cells called dendritic cells, which help our body fight off infections and cancer, to find new ways to improve treatments for autoimmune diseases and cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $312,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK138827-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10914888 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals with autoimmune diseases or cancers who may have altered immune responses.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with stable, non-immune related conditions may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of glutamine metabolism in the development of dendritic cells, which are crucial for the immune system's ability to recognize and respond to pathogens and cancer. The study focuses on how the availability of glutamine in different tissue environments influences the differentiation of dendritic cells from their precursors. By understanding these metabolic processes, the research aims to uncover new insights into how immune responses can be modulated, potentially leading to improved treatments for autoimmune diseases and cancers.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for enhancing immune responses against infections and tumors.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding immune cell differentiation through metabolic pathways, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Haldar, Malay — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Haldar, Malay
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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.