How Immune Cells Learn to Fight Infections Better
Programming of PMN host-defense function during transendothelial migration
This project looks at how our immune cells, called neutrophils, become stronger at fighting bacterial infections as they move into infected body tissues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Illinois at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11145657 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies rely on special immune cells called neutrophils to quickly get rid of harmful bacteria. These cells travel from our bloodstream into infected areas by squeezing through tiny gaps in blood vessel walls. This project explores how the physical forces these cells experience during this journey might "train" them to become more effective germ-killers. We believe that a specific sensor on these cells, called Piezo1, plays a key role in this training process, making them better at fighting off infections.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients who experience recurrent or severe bacterial infections might eventually benefit from therapies developed from this fundamental understanding.
Not a fit: Patients with non-bacterial infections or those whose immune systems are compromised in ways unrelated to neutrophil migration may not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to boost our immune system's ability to fight off bacterial infections more effectively.
How similar studies have performed: This research explores a novel link between mechanical forces and immune cell function, suggesting a new and untested approach to understanding host defense.
Where this research is happening
Chicago, UNITED STATES
- University of Illinois at Chicago — Chicago, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Komarova, Yulia a — University of Illinois at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Komarova, Yulia a
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.