Role of T cell help in germinal centers by labeling interactions
Official title: Defining the role of T cell help in germinal centers by intercellular enzymatic labeling
Funded at Rockefeller University · NIH-11386673 · Data updated 2026-11-12
Researchers are exploring how helper T cells guide the maturation of antibodies in germinal centers to improve vaccines and immune protection for people with HIV or related immune issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rockefeller University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | September 21, 2022 |
| Project end | July 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $797,082 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI173086-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11386673 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates include individuals with immune system concerns or those at risk of infections where high-affinity antibodies are protective.
✕Less likely to help
Healthy individuals without immune challenges may see indirect benefits, while direct clinical benefits may be limited for them.
What this research studies
This project studies how B cells refine their antibodies in germinal centers, focusing on how T follicular helper cells provide targeted help to the highest-affinity B cells. The team aims to use a novel labeling approach to map intercellular interactions that drive antibody quality. By understanding these signals in a physiological setting, the research could inform better vaccines and therapies for immune-related diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Better understanding of antibody maturation could lead to more effective vaccines and treatments for HIV/AIDS and autoimmune conditions.
How similar studies have gone: Previous work has established a role for T helper cells in guiding antibody maturation, but direct in vivo demonstration remains a focus of ongoing research.
Where this research is happening
-
Rockefeller University
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Victora, Gabriel D — Rockefeller University
- Study coordinator: Victora, Gabriel D
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.