How nerve cells influence immune cell behavior in body tissues
Official title: Neuronal regulation of tissue-resident macrophage maintenance and polarization
Funded at Kansas State University · NIH-11117092 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how nerve cells in your body might help control immune cells called macrophages, especially when you're hurt or have inflammation, to see if they can either make things worse or help you heal, which could be really helpful for understanding lung and abdominal conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Kansas State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Manhattan, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $375,529 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM155117-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11117092 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions affecting the lungs or peritoneal cavity, particularly those experiencing chronic inflammation or injury.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with acute injuries or conditions unrelated to immune modulation in the lung or peritoneal cavity may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between sensory nerve cells and tissue-resident macrophages, which are immune cells found in various body tissues. It explores how these nerve cells may regulate the development and function of macrophages, particularly in response to injury and inflammation. By examining the signaling mechanisms involved, the study aims to understand how nerve signals can affect the polarization of macrophages into different functional states, which can either promote inflammation or aid in tissue repair. This research could provide insights into the immune response in conditions affecting the lungs and peritoneal cavity.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for managing inflammatory diseases and improving tissue healing.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the interactions between nerve cells and immune responses, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Kansas State University
Manhattan, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Baral, Pankaj — Kansas State University
- Study coordinator: Baral, Pankaj
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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.