How neutrophils trap and kill bacteria using new methods

Neutrophil Extracellular Traps and Host Immunity

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF TX MD ANDERSON CAN CTR · NIH-11043391

This study is looking at how a common immune cell helps fight bacteria in people with Chronic Granulomatous Disease (CGD) and is testing if the drug Tamoxifen can help these patients make more of these helpful traps to better fight infections.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF TX MD ANDERSON CAN CTR (nih funded)
Locations1 site (HOUSTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11043391 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of neutrophils, a type of immune cell, in trapping and killing bacteria through a process called NETosis, which forms extracellular traps. The study focuses on patients with Chronic Granulomatous Disease (CGD), who have difficulty generating these traps due to genetic mutations. Researchers are exploring how the FDA-approved drug Tamoxifen can stimulate NET formation in these patients, potentially offering a new treatment approach. By understanding the mechanisms behind this process, the research aims to improve immune responses against bacterial infections.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Chronic Granulomatous Disease or similar immune deficiencies.

Not a fit: Patients without immune deficiencies or those not affected by bacterial infections may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment options for patients with weakened immune systems, particularly those with CGD, enhancing their ability to fight infections.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise in using similar approaches to enhance immune responses, but this specific pathway involving Tamoxifen is relatively novel.

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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: acute infection, Airway Disease, Anti-Cancer Agents, anti-cancer drug

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.