Investigating how immune cells communicate and secrete proteins

Nanoplasmonic Spatiotemporal Imaging of Single-Cell Protein Secretion and Intercellular Communication

NIH-funded research New York University · NIH-10935968

This study is looking at how immune cells communicate by releasing special proteins, and it's using a new imaging technique to see this process in real-time, which could lead to better treatments for infections and other immune-related conditions.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNew York University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-10935968 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the behavior of individual immune cells, particularly how they secrete proteins called cytokines that are crucial for cell communication. By developing a novel imaging technique using plasmonic nanoantenna structures, the study aims to capture real-time data on the timing and spatial dynamics of cytokine release. This approach will help researchers gain insights into the interactions between different immune cell types and improve our understanding of immune responses. Patients may benefit from advancements in immunology and infectious disease diagnosis stemming from this work.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with immune system disorders or those undergoing treatment for conditions that affect immune cell function.

Not a fit: Patients with stable, non-immune related conditions may not receive direct benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnostic tools and therapies for immune-related diseases.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach is innovative, similar research has shown promise in understanding immune cell interactions, indicating potential for success.

Where this research is happening

New York, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.