Investigating the role of IL-39 in graft-versus-host disease

Pathogenic role of IL-39/IL-39R signaling in graft-versus-host disease

NIH-funded research Medical College of Wisconsin · NIH-11140887

This study is looking at how a substance called IL-39 affects the immune response in people who have had a bone marrow transplant and are at risk for graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), with the goal of finding new ways to help manage this condition.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMedical College of Wisconsin NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Milwaukee, United States)
Project IDNIH-11140887 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how a specific cytokine, IL-39, contributes to graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), a serious complication that can occur after allogeneic bone marrow transplantation. The study aims to explore the mechanisms by which IL-39 activates T-cells and influences their behavior in both animal models and human patients. By examining the relationship between IL-39 levels and GVHD development, the researchers hope to clarify its role in this condition and identify potential therapeutic targets.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include patients who are undergoing or have undergone allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation and are at risk for developing graft-versus-host disease.

Not a fit: Patients who have not undergone allogeneic bone marrow transplantation or those with other unrelated conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that reduce the incidence and severity of graft-versus-host disease in patients undergoing bone marrow transplants.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results regarding the role of cytokines in graft-versus-host disease, but the specific role of IL-39 is still being explored and is considered novel.

Where this research is happening

Milwaukee, 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.
Conditions Acute Graft Versus Host Diseaseacute graft vs host diseaseacute graft vs. host disease
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 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.