Training immune cells to fight infections more effectively

Training human iPSC-derived neutrophils for antimicrobial function

NIH-funded research University of Wisconsin-Madison · NIH-11097284

This study is looking at ways to make a type of immune cell called neutrophils even better at fighting infections by using special stem cells, which could help improve treatments for patients who need a stronger immune response.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Madison, United States)
Project IDNIH-11097284 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how to enhance the function of neutrophils, a type of immune cell crucial for fighting infections, by using induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). The researchers aim to genetically program these neutrophils to improve their antimicrobial abilities and understand their diverse functions. By employing advanced techniques like single-cell multi-omics, they will explore the metabolic and genomic factors that influence neutrophil behavior, potentially leading to better treatments for infections. Patients may benefit from insights gained about how to boost their immune response against pathogens.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with compromised immune systems or those at high risk for infections.

Not a fit: Patients with fully functional immune systems or those not at risk for infections may not receive direct benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved therapies that enhance the immune response in patients, making them more effective at fighting infections.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using engineered immune cells for therapeutic purposes, indicating that this approach could lead to significant advancements.

Where this research is happening

Madison, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.