Investigating how to promote protective immune structures in response to infections and diseases

Targeting IKK-alpha in lymphatics to drive protective tertiary lymphoid organ formation

['FUNDING_R21'] · UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA · NIH-10767989

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

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA (nih funded)
Locations1 site (PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10767989 on ClinicalTrials.gov

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.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults with autoimmune conditions, chronic inflammatory diseases, or cancers.

Not a fit: Patients with acute infections or those not suffering from autoimmune or chronic inflammatory diseases may not benefit from this research.

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 performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting immune structures for therapeutic benefits, indicating potential success for this approach.

Where this research is happening

PHILADELPHIA, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: autoimmune disorder, autoimmunity disease, Autoimmune Diseases, bacteria infection, bacterial disease

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.