How the immune system protects the intestines from infections
Coordination of Innate and Adaptive Immunity in Intestinal Barrier Defense
['FUNDING_R37'] · UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA AT BIRMINGHAM · NIH-11031433
This study is looking at how a special immune protein called IL-22 helps protect the gut from germs, and it hopes to find new ways to improve gut health for people dealing with conditions like inflammatory bowel disease and colorectal cancer.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R37'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA AT BIRMINGHAM (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BIRMINGHAM, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11031433 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the coordination between innate and adaptive immune cells in maintaining the intestinal barrier against pathogens. It focuses on the role of a specific cytokine, Interleukin-22 (IL-22), produced by immune cells, in regulating the function of epithelial cells that line the intestines. By understanding how IL-22 operates during infections, particularly with the pathogen C. rodentium, the research aims to uncover mechanisms that could enhance intestinal defense and prevent diseases like inflammatory bowel disease and colorectal cancer. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new treatments for intestinal disorders.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from inflammatory bowel disease or those at risk for colorectal cancer.
Not a fit: Patients with non-intestinal related immune disorders may not receive any benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved therapies for patients with inflammatory bowel disease and colorectal cancer.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding immune responses in intestinal health, suggesting that this approach could yield significant insights.
Where this research is happening
BIRMINGHAM, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA AT BIRMINGHAM — BIRMINGHAM, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: WEAVER, CASEY T — UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA AT BIRMINGHAM
- Study coordinator: WEAVER, CASEY T
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.