How Immune Cells Protect Against Infection and Cancer in the Abdomen
Differentiation and Function of Monocytes and Macrophages
This research looks at how special immune cells in the abdomen, called macrophages, work to fight off germs and how their loss might affect conditions like cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R37 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10977054 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores how immune cells called macrophages, found in the fluid of body cavities like the abdomen, protect us from infections. When inflammation occurs, these macrophages produce a clotting factor to create a 3D environment, helping them capture microbes more effectively. Sometimes, these macrophages disappear for a while after a strong inflammatory response, potentially leaving the body vulnerable. We are studying how these cells die and repopulate, and if this period of vulnerability could contribute to the progression of diseases like ovarian cancer.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not directly involve patient participation, but future studies building on this work might seek patients with conditions related to peritoneal infections or ovarian cancer.
Not a fit: Patients not experiencing conditions related to peritoneal immunity or ovarian cancer may not directly benefit from this specific line of research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to protect against infections in body cavities and potentially inform treatments for cancers like ovarian cancer by understanding immune cell behavior.
How similar studies have performed: The specific mechanisms of macrophage disappearance and repopulation, especially their link to coagulation and cancer progression, represent a novel area of investigation.
Where this research is happening
Saint Louis, United States
- Washington University — Saint Louis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Randolph, Gwendalyn J — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Randolph, Gwendalyn J
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.