Improving immunity by protecting lymphatic muscle cells from MRSA damage
Official title: Enhancing immunity by protecting lymphatic muscle cells from MRSA-Induced dysfunction
Funded at Boston University Medical Campus · NIH-10944437 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how infections in the skin, especially those caused by MRSA, can lead to swelling and problems with lymph flow, and it's for anyone who wants to understand how we can better treat these issues and help the body heal.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston University Medical Campus NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | July 2, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $361,650 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AR084505-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10944437 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals suffering from lymphedema or recurrent bacterial infections, particularly those caused by MRSA.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-bacterial infections or those who do not have lymphedema may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how skin and soft tissue infections, particularly those caused by MRSA, can lead to lymphedema, a serious condition affecting lymphatic function. The project aims to understand the mechanisms that impair lymphatic vessel function and to develop targeted treatments that can restore lymph flow and enhance immune responses. Researchers will use advanced techniques like single-cell RNA sequencing and calcium imaging to study the effects of bacterial infections on lymphatic muscle cells and explore potential pharmacological interventions to improve their function.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that alleviate lymphedema and improve immune responses in patients with bacterial infections.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in understanding lymphatic function and developing treatments for lymphedema, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Boston University Medical Campus
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jones, Dennis — Boston University Medical Campus
- Study coordinator: Jones, Dennis
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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.