Transplanting preserved thymus tissue to improve immune response
Official title: Transplantation of Cryopreserved Thymus
Funded at Duke University · NIH-10802406 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how using frozen thymus tissue can help people who have received organ transplants accept their new organs better, which could mean they won't need to take as many medications to suppress their immune system and can live healthier lives.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project start | March 6, 2023 |
| Project end | February 28, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $201,250 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI175164-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10802406 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children and young adults who require organ transplants and are at risk of complications from immunosuppression.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not undergoing organ transplantation or those with existing immune system disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the transplantation of cryopreserved thymus tissue to enhance immune tolerance in patients receiving organ transplants. By using cultured thymus tissue implantation (CTTI), the goal is to help the body recognize transplanted organs as 'self', reducing the need for long-term immunosuppression. This approach aims to improve patient survival rates and minimize the risks associated with immunosuppressive therapies. The research will explore methods to extend the viability of donor thymus tissue, allowing for more flexible timing in transplantation procedures.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the survival and quality of life for transplant patients by reducing their reliance on immunosuppressive drugs.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results with similar approaches, particularly in animal models, but this specific application in humans is novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Duke University
Durham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Turek, Joseph — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Turek, Joseph
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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.