Investigating how medium chain fatty acids affect chronic graft-versus-host disease

Targeting medium chain fatty acid metabolism for the treatment of chronic Graft-versus-Host Disease

NIH-funded research University of Central Florida · NIH-11092858

This study is looking at how certain fatty acids might affect T cells and contribute to chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD) after stem cell transplants, with the hope of finding new ways to help patients feel better.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Central Florida NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Orlando, United States)
Project IDNIH-11092858 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD), a serious condition that can occur after stem cell transplants. It aims to understand how medium chain fatty acids (MCFAs) influence T cell behavior and contribute to cGVHD. By studying blood samples from patients and using animal models, the researchers will explore the role of a specific receptor, GPR84, in the disease process. The goal is to identify new therapeutic strategies that target this metabolic pathway to improve patient outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients who have undergone allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation and are experiencing symptoms of chronic graft-versus-host disease.

Not a fit: Patients who have not undergone stem cell transplantation or those without chronic graft-versus-host disease may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that better manage or prevent chronic graft-versus-host disease, reducing morbidity and improving quality of life for patients.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of targeting GPR84 in cGVHD is novel, similar metabolic interventions have shown promise in other immune-related conditions.

Where this research is happening

Orlando, 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.