Investigating how certain immune cells help the body tolerate infections from hookworms
RELMalpha-expressing macrophages mediate host disease tolerance in mucosal infection
This study is looking at how a special protein helps the immune system fight off hookworm infections while keeping lung tissue safe, and it could lead to new ways to help people recover better from similar infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Riverside NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Riverside, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10829843 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores how the immune system can balance fighting off hookworm infections while minimizing damage to the body's tissues. Using a mouse model, the study focuses on a protein called Resistin-like molecule (RELM)a, which is secreted by immune cells and helps protect lung tissue from damage caused by the infection. The researchers aim to understand how RELMa-expressing macrophages contribute to healing and inflammation resolution, potentially leading to new therapeutic targets for treating infections. By examining the behavior of these immune cells, the research seeks to uncover mechanisms that could improve patient outcomes in similar infections.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with chronic hookworm infections or those at risk of such infections.
Not a fit: Patients with infections caused by other types of pathogens or those without any helminth infections may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that enhance the body's ability to heal from hookworm infections while reducing tissue damage.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in understanding immune responses to helminth infections, but the specific approach of targeting RELMa-expressing macrophages is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Riverside, United States
- University of California Riverside — Riverside, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Nair, Meera Goh — University of California Riverside
- Study coordinator: Nair, Meera Goh
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 below.