Investigating how Vitamin C affects blood cell formation and infection response
The role of ascorbate in myelopoiesis and infection
This study is looking at how Vitamin C affects the production of blood cells and how our bodies respond to infections, like malaria, to help us understand its importance for keeping our immune system strong.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ut Southwestern Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Dallas, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11015761 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the role of ascorbate, commonly known as Vitamin C, in the formation of blood cells and the body's response to infections. By profiling the metabolome of hematopoietic stem cells, the study aims to understand how ascorbate levels influence blood cell production and inflammation, particularly after infections like malaria. The researchers will utilize genetically engineered models to examine how ascorbate deficiency impacts myelopoiesis, which is the process of producing myeloid cells that are crucial for immune response. This could lead to new insights into the importance of Vitamin C in maintaining healthy blood cell function.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include adults with a history of ascorbate deficiency or those experiencing issues related to blood cell production.
Not a fit: Patients who are not experiencing blood cell production issues or do not have ascorbate deficiency may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for infections and blood disorders by highlighting the importance of Vitamin C in blood cell health.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that Vitamin C plays a significant role in various biological processes, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Dallas, United States
- Ut Southwestern Medical Center — Dallas, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Agathocleous, Michalis — Ut Southwestern Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Agathocleous, Michalis
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 below.