Investigating a new type of immune cell that may protect against allergies

A novel CD4+ T cell subset associated with allergy protection

NIH-funded research San Diego Biomedical Research Institute · NIH-11133739

This study is looking at a special type of immune cell that might help protect against allergies and asthma, and it's for anyone interested in how our bodies respond to things like dust mites; researchers want to see how these cells behave differently in people with and without allergies to find new ways to prevent and treat these conditions.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionSan Diego Biomedical Research Institute NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Diego, United States)
Project IDNIH-11133739 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding a specific subset of CD4+ T cells, known as THIFNR cells, which may play a protective role against allergies and asthma. By analyzing the genetic profiles of these cells from individuals with and without allergies, the researchers aim to uncover how these immune cells respond to allergens like house dust mites. The study involves advanced techniques such as single-cell transcriptomics to identify differences in T cell responses, which could lead to new insights into allergy prevention and treatment.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with allergic conditions such as asthma or allergic rhinitis, as well as non-allergic individuals who may be exposed to allergens.

Not a fit: Patients with no history of allergic conditions and no exposure to common allergens may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing and treating allergic diseases, potentially improving the quality of life for many patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding T cell responses in allergies, but the specific focus on THIFNR cells is a novel approach.

Where this research is happening

San Diego, 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.
Conditions Allergic Disease
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.