Investigating how a specific signaling pathway helps immune cells kill virus-infected cells
Official title: The Unexpected Role of TNFRSF14 Signaling in Promoting Antibody-Dependent Cell-Mediated Cytotoxicity
Funded at Albert Einstein College of Medicine · NIH-11017172 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific signaling process can help boost the immune system's ability to fight off herpes simplex virus infections, and it could lead to better vaccines for this and other viruses, making it easier for patients to stay healthy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Albert Einstein College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Bronx, United States) |
| Project start | November 7, 2024 |
| Project end | October 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $493,920 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AI187024-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11017172 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals with a history of herpes simplex virus infections or those at high risk for such infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have herpes simplex virus infections or related conditions may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of TNFRSF14 signaling in enhancing the immune response, particularly through a process called antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC). By using a specially engineered strain of the herpes simplex virus (HSV), the researchers aim to identify how certain antibodies can effectively target and eliminate infected cells without relying on traditional neutralizing mechanisms. The study involves both animal models and advanced techniques like cryo-electron microscopy to visualize antibody interactions. Patients may benefit from insights gained about how to improve vaccine efficacy against HSV and potentially other viral infections.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective vaccines and therapies for herpes simplex virus infections and possibly other viral diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using antibody-dependent mechanisms to enhance immune responses, suggesting that this approach could be a viable strategy for vaccine development.
Where this research is happening
-
Albert Einstein College of Medicine
Bronx, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Herold, Betsy C. — Albert Einstein College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Herold, Betsy C.
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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.