How infections affect blood stem cells and their function

Epigenetic modification of hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells in inflammation-induced differentiation

NIH-funded research Baylor College of Medicine · NIH-10894252

This study is looking at how a specific chronic infection can affect the blood-forming cells in patients getting stem cell transplants, with the goal of finding ways to help these cells recover better and improve the overall success of the transplant.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBaylor College of Medicine NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Houston, United States)
Project IDNIH-10894252 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how chronic infections, specifically from Mycobacterium avium, impair the function of hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) in patients undergoing stem cell transplants. The study focuses on understanding the epigenetic changes that occur in these cells due to inflammation, which can lead to their depletion and hinder recovery after transplantation. By examining the mechanisms behind these changes, the research aims to identify potential strategies to protect HSPCs and improve patient outcomes following infections. Patients may benefit from insights that could enhance the effectiveness of stem cell transplants.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplants who are at risk of infections.

Not a fit: Patients who are not undergoing stem cell transplants or those without chronic infections may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preserving blood stem cell function in patients with infections, enhancing recovery after stem cell transplants.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding epigenetic modifications can lead to significant advancements in stem cell therapies, indicating potential success for this approach.

Where this research is happening

Houston, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.