How maternal antibodies affect the immune system and gluten sensitivity in newborns.

Influence of Maternal IgA on Neonatal iNKT Cell Development and Gluten Sensitive Enteropathy.

NIH-funded research University of South Carolina at Columbia · NIH-11165896

This study is looking at how antibodies from a mother's breast milk can help protect newborns from gluten sensitivity by supporting their immune system and gut health, which could lead to new ways to prevent this condition in the future.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of South Carolina at Columbia NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Columbia, United States)
Project IDNIH-11165896 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of maternal IgA antibodies transferred through breast milk in shaping the immune system and gut microbiota of newborns. It aims to understand how these antibodies may prevent gluten sensitivity by promoting the development of specific immune cells during early life. Using mouse models, the study will explore the effects of maternal IgA on the immune response to gluten and its potential long-term implications for health. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to preventive strategies against gluten sensitivity.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are mothers and their newborns, particularly those at risk for gluten sensitivity.

Not a fit: Patients who are already diagnosed with gluten sensitivity or related conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide new strategies for preventing gluten sensitivity in children.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that maternal factors can influence immune development, suggesting potential success for this approach.

Where this research is happening

Columbia, 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.