Targeting brain immune cells for new treatments
Official title: Unlocking microglia targeting for neurotherapeutics
Funded at Children's Hosp of Philadelphia · NIH-10932153 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring ways to change brain immune cells called microglia to help them better fight infections, which could lead to new treatments for kids with certain brain-related health issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Children's Hosp of Philadelphia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | September 20, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $445,000 |
| NIH project number | 5DP5OD036159-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10932153 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children with neuroimmunological conditions, such as leukodystrophies and interferonopathies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with neurological conditions unrelated to immune responses or those who do not have access to the required genetic therapies may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on microglia, the immune cells in the brain that play a crucial role in responding to injury and infection. The project aims to develop methods to genetically engineer these cells using advanced techniques like CRISPR and lentiviruses, which could lead to new therapies for neurological diseases. By understanding how microglia can be manipulated, the research seeks to enhance their ability to fight viral infections and improve patient outcomes. The work is particularly relevant for children with neuroimmunological conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments for neurological diseases by harnessing the power of microglia.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in manipulating immune cells for therapeutic purposes, but this specific approach using microglia and CRISPR is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Children's Hosp of Philadelphia
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bennett, Mariko L. — Children's Hosp of Philadelphia
- Study coordinator: Bennett, Mariko L.
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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.