Investigating how to promote protective immune structures in response to infections and diseases
Official title: Targeting IKK-alpha in lymphatics to drive protective tertiary lymphoid organ formation
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-10767989 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how special immune structures in the body can help us fight infections, cancer, and autoimmune diseases, with the goal of finding new treatments that boost our immune system while keeping side effects low.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | January 24, 2023 |
| Project end | December 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $196,875 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI173679-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10767989 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults with autoimmune conditions, chronic inflammatory diseases, or cancers.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with acute infections or those not suffering from autoimmune or chronic inflammatory diseases may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how tertiary lymphoid organs (TLOs) can be beneficial in fighting infections and diseases like cancer and autoimmune disorders. By studying the signals and cells that lead to the formation of these immune structures, the researchers aim to develop new treatments that enhance immune responses while minimizing harmful effects. The approach involves using animal models to explore the role of specific proteins in lymphatic cells and their impact on immune function. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to innovative therapies for various conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new immune-modulating drugs that enhance the body's ability to fight infections and cancers.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting immune structures for therapeutic benefits, indicating potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: May, Michael J — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: May, Michael J
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.