How TAM receptors on immune cells affect antibody protection against malaria
Role of TAM receptors in modulating humoral immunity against parasitic infections
Researchers are testing whether blocking a stress-driven pathway in B cells can help people in malaria areas make stronger, longer-lasting antibodies.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rosalind Franklin Univ of Medicine & Sci NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (North Chicago, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11184217 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project focuses on why people often fail to develop lasting antibody protection after malaria infections. The team is studying how malaria-related anemia and low oxygen may turn on TAM receptors on B cells and drive short-lived antibody-producing cells that weaken immunity. They combine mouse models, genetic and biochemical experiments, bone marrow chimeras, and comparisons with human samples to see if the same pathway operates in people. The aim is to find ways to interrupt this chain so vaccines or host-directed treatments can boost better antibody responses.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates would be people living in malaria-endemic regions, especially those with recent or repeated Plasmodium infections or malaria-related anemia.
Not a fit: People without malaria exposure, those with unrelated immune disorders, or individuals unable to mount normal immune responses may not directly benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to treatments or vaccine strategies that help people in malaria-endemic areas develop stronger, longer-lasting immunity and reduce transmission.
How similar studies have performed: There is prior evidence that TAM receptors regulate immune responses, but applying that knowledge specifically to improve antibody protection against malaria is a newer and less-tested approach.
Where this research is happening
North Chicago, United States
- Rosalind Franklin Univ of Medicine & Sci — North Chicago, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Vijay, Rahul — Rosalind Franklin Univ of Medicine & Sci
- Study coordinator: Vijay, Rahul
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.