Investigating how sex differences affect T cell metabolism
Official title: Sex Differences in T cell metabolism
Funded at Harvard Medical School · NIH-11072957 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the way T cells use energy differs between men and women, which might help explain why women often have more active immune responses and a higher chance of developing autoimmune diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Harvard Medical School NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $36,918 |
| NIH project number | 5F31AI176738-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11072957 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with autoimmune diseases, particularly females who may exhibit different immune responses compared to males.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-autoimmune conditions or those who do not identify as male or female may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the significant differences in T cell metabolism between males and females, which may influence immune responses and disease outcomes. It aims to understand how these metabolic differences affect the activation and function of T cells, particularly in the context of autoimmune diseases. By examining the underlying biological mechanisms, the research seeks to identify why females tend to have higher levels of activated T cells and how this relates to their increased risk of autoimmune conditions. The study employs various assays and biological assessments to analyze T cell behavior and metabolism in both sexes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and tailored treatments for autoimmune diseases based on sex-specific immune responses.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has indicated that understanding sex differences in immune responses can lead to significant advancements in treatment strategies, suggesting this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Harvard Medical School
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kline, Jaclyn — Harvard Medical School
- Study coordinator: Kline, Jaclyn
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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.