Measuring how well B cells respond to influenza infection
Assessing functional immunity to influenza infection by quantifying BCR binding avidities
This study is looking at how well certain immune cells called B cells can recognize and fight off different types of the flu virus, which could help improve vaccines and keep you better protected against the flu.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California at Davis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Davis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11048194 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the immune response of B cells to influenza by developing a new tool to measure how effectively these cells can bind to the virus. It focuses on understanding the functionality of memory B cells, which are crucial for long-term immunity, especially against mutated strains of the virus. By using a microfluidic platform, the study aims to capture the binding strength of B cells to various influenza variants, which could inform vaccine updates and improve patient protection. The approach combines advanced techniques like flow cytometry and microfluidics to provide direct insights into B cell responses.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have had previous influenza infections or vaccinations and are interested in understanding their immune response.
Not a fit: Patients who have not been exposed to influenza or its vaccines may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better vaccines and treatments for influenza and similar viral infections, enhancing patient immunity.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in measuring B cell responses, but this specific approach using microfluidics is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Davis, United States
- University of California at Davis — Davis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: George, Steven Carl — University of California at Davis
- Study coordinator: George, Steven Carl
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.