Investigating a new mouse model for understanding specific immune cells in tuberculosis
Official title: A new mouse model to study the function of CD1b-restricted germline encoded, mycolyl lipid-reactive (GEM) T cells
Funded at Northwestern University at Chicago · NIH-10867411 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at special immune cells that help fight tuberculosis, and it's testing a new mouse model to see how these cells work and if giving them to infected mice can help control the infection better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | June 14, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $200,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI178629-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10867411 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research would include individuals with a history of tuberculosis infection or those at high risk for developing the disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not affected by tuberculosis or do not have a related immune response may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on a unique subset of immune cells known as CD1-restricted T cells, which play a crucial role in recognizing and responding to lipid antigens associated with Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) infection. By developing a new mouse model, the researchers aim to explore how these T cells function and their potential to limit Mtb growth. The study involves analyzing T cell responses and the effectiveness of adoptive transfer of specific T cells to combat Mtb infection. This approach could provide insights into enhancing immune responses against tuberculosis.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing and treating tuberculosis by harnessing the body's immune response.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of CD1-restricted T cells in tuberculosis, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Northwestern University at Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wang, Chyung-Ru — Northwestern University at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Wang, Chyung-Ru
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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.