How gut bacteria influence graft vs. host disease after stem cell transplants
Official title: Propagation of graft vs. host disease through CD4+ T-cell cognate recognition of gastrointestinal microbiota
Funded at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center · NIH-10834980 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain immune cells called T-cells interact with the bacteria in the gut after a stem cell transplant, to better understand how these interactions might affect the development and severity of graft vs. host disease (GVHD), which can make recovery harder for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $162,432 |
| NIH project number | 5K08HL167161-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10834980 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients who are undergoing or have undergone hematopoietic stem cell transplantation and are at risk for developing graft vs. host disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not undergone stem cell transplantation or those without a diagnosis of graft vs. host disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of T-cells in graft vs. host disease (GVHD) following hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), particularly focusing on how these immune cells interact with the gut microbiome. By examining the specific responses of T-cells to different microbial species, the study aims to uncover mechanisms that contribute to the onset and severity of GVHD. The research combines clinical insights with computational modeling to enhance understanding and potentially improve treatment strategies for patients undergoing HSCT. This work is crucial as GVHD can significantly impact recovery and quality of life for transplant recipients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved management and treatment of graft vs. host disease, enhancing recovery outcomes for patients undergoing stem cell transplants.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the relationship between the microbiome and immune responses, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center
Seattle, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yeh, Albert Chia-Chun — Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center
- Study coordinator: Yeh, Albert Chia-Chun
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Propagation of GVHD through CD4+ T-cell recognition of gut bacteria
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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.