Investigating how GDF-15 affects immune responses during infections
Official title: GDF-15 as a mediator of immune-regulated sickness response during infection
Funded at Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences · NIH-10735886 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called GDF-15 affects the immune system during infections like Toxoplasma gondii, especially how it can make people lose their appetite and weight, with the hope that understanding this could help improve health for those who are sick.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Newark, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | November 7, 2022 |
| Project end | October 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $188,767 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI171670-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10735886 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals suffering from infections or cancers that may be influenced by immune response mechanisms.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-infectious diseases or those not experiencing significant immune response issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the role of the cytokine GDF-15 in regulating immune responses during infections, particularly focusing on Toxoplasma gondii. It examines how GDF-15, influenced by another cytokine called IFN-γ, can suppress appetite and induce weight loss in infected individuals. By using genetic and immunological methods, the study aims to understand the mechanisms through which GDF-15 contributes to sickness responses during infections. Patients may benefit from insights into how immune responses can be modulated to improve health outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for managing immune responses in patients with infections and cancer.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that targeting immune mediators like GDF-15 can lead to significant insights in managing immune-related conditions, suggesting potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences
Newark, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yap, George S. — Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Yap, George S.
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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.