Investigating how a protein in breast milk affects immune tolerance in infants
Official title: Milk Butryophilin and Immune Tolerence
Funded at Yale University · NIH-11083041 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein in breast milk called BTN1A1 helps babies' immune systems work better, which might protect them from allergies and autoimmune diseases as they grow up.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project start | May 2, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $209,375 |
| NIH project number | 5R21HD111764-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11083041 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are infants under 11 years old, particularly those at risk for allergic or autoimmune conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are older than 11 years or those who are not breastfed may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the role of butyrophilin (BTN1A1), a protein found in breast milk, in shaping the immune system of infants. It aims to understand how BTN1A1 influences T cell activation and tolerance, potentially protecting against allergic and autoimmune diseases. The study will involve testing the effects of BTN1A1 on T cell responses in neonatal models, with a focus on how these effects may persist beyond weaning. By examining these mechanisms, the research seeks to uncover how breastfeeding can provide lasting immune benefits to children.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing allergic diseases in children through enhanced understanding of breast milk's immune properties.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown that components in breast milk can influence immune development, suggesting that this research builds on established findings in the field.
Where this research is happening
-
Yale University
New Haven, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wysolmerski, John J — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Wysolmerski, John J
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.