Investigating how a specific molecule helps the immune system fight Listeria infections
Official title: The role of Prostaglandin E2 in Listeria monocytogenes induced CD8+ T-cell priming
Funded at University of Wisconsin-Madison · NIH-11030998 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how our immune system fights off a harmful bacteria called Listeria and how a molecule called prostaglandin E2 helps boost the activity of important immune cells that protect us from infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Madison, United States) |
| Project start | November 12, 2024 |
| Project end | October 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $182,084 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AI187635-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11030998 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with compromised immune systems or those at risk of severe bacterial infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with viral infections or those not affected by bacterial pathogens may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how the immune system responds to Listeria monocytogenes, a harmful bacteria. It specifically examines the role of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), a molecule that is produced when the bacteria invade cells. The researchers will use various laboratory techniques, including screening bacterial mutants and co-culturing immune cells, to explore how PGE2 enhances the activation of CD8+ T-cells, which are crucial for fighting infections. By uncovering these mechanisms, the study aims to improve our understanding of immune responses to bacterial infections.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for enhancing immune responses against bacterial infections, potentially improving treatment options.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding immune responses to bacterial infections, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sauer, John-Demian — University of Wisconsin-Madison
- Study coordinator: Sauer, John-Demian
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.