How long-lived antibody-producing cells form and survive in bone marrow
Human Plasma Cell Maturation & Maintenance through CD138, TNFRSF, and Modulation of Ig Secretion
This work looks at how bone marrow signals keep antibody-making cells alive to support long-term immunity in adults.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11290346 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
From a patient's perspective: researchers will study the bone marrow environment that helps newly made antibody-producing cells turn into long-lived plasma cells. They will examine molecules on these cells (like CD138 and BCMA, members of the TNF receptor family) and the signals that control how much antibody the cells secrete. The team will use human-derived samples and laboratory models to measure cell survival, binding partners, and energy-related processes that support antibody production. Findings will be used to inform strategies for making vaccines that produce longer-lasting antibody protection.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults who are willing to provide blood or bone marrow samples through Emory University or affiliated clinics would be the most relevant participants.
Not a fit: People seeking immediate clinical treatment are unlikely to benefit directly because this is basic laboratory research rather than a therapeutic trial.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could help design vaccines that give longer-lasting antibody protection.
How similar studies have performed: Prior research has shown CD138 and BCMA help plasma cells survive, but applying detailed knowledge of these pathways to extend vaccine-induced immunity is still a developing area.
Where this research is happening
Atlanta, United States
- Emory University — Atlanta, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lee, Frances Eun-Hyung — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Lee, Frances Eun-Hyung
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.