Investigating T cell roles in the brain of mice exposed to microbes
Official title: Brain T cell interactions in microbial experienced mice
Funded at University of Iowa · NIH-11103371 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain immune cells called T cells behave in the brains of mice that have been exposed to different germs, to better understand their role in keeping our brains healthy as we age and in fighting neurological diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Iowa NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Iowa City, United States) |
| Project start | June 4, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $194,375 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI185067-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11103371 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research would include individuals with neurological conditions or those interested in the immune system's role in brain health.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with no neurological conditions or those not interested in immune system interactions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the interactions of T cells in the brains of mice that have been exposed to various microbes. It aims to understand how these immune cells contribute to brain health and function, particularly in the context of aging and neurological diseases. The study uses specific pathogen-exposed mice to mimic human immune responses more closely, allowing researchers to investigate the presence and role of T cells in a more realistic environment. By comparing these mice to standard laboratory mice, the research seeks to fill critical knowledge gaps regarding immune responses in the brain.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into how T cells affect brain health, potentially informing treatments for neurological diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding immune cell roles in the brain, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Iowa
Iowa City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Harty, John T — University of Iowa
- Study coordinator: Harty, John T
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.