Molecular details of the IgE response in alpha-gal allergy
Official title: Molecular details of the IgE antibody response to galactose-alpha-1,3-galactose in alpha-gal syndrome
Funded at University of Virginia · NIH-11510399 · Data updated 2026-11-12
Scientists are building a first-in-kind set of human IgE antibodies from people with alpha-gal syndrome to understand exactly how the allergic protein interacts with the immune system.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2025 |
| Project end | February 28, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $660,322 |
| NIH project number | 7R01AI189950-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11510399 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Individuals with alpha-gal syndrome who have allergic responses to mammalian meat.
✕Less likely to help
People without alpha-gal syndrome or those not involved in IgE-focused research may not benefit directly.
What this research studies
This project will create naturally occurring human IgE monoclonal antibodies from individuals with alpha-gal syndrome to study how these antibodies recognize the allergen. Using advanced methods, the team will map how IgE binds to the alpha-gal epitope and how this drives mast cell activation. The work aims to reveal precise molecular interactions that cause allergic reactions, guiding future prevention and treatment strategies. Results could lead to better diagnostics and targeted therapies for meat allergy and related IgE-mediated conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Better understanding of alpha-gal allergy could enable more accurate tests and targeted treatments, reducing reaction risk for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies used mixed serum antibodies; this project’s monoclonal IgE approach is a novel step that builds on prior IgE research but is highly innovative.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Virginia
Charlottesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Smith, Scott Alan — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Smith, Scott Alan
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.