Understanding atypical B cells and their role in immune response
Official title: Atypical B Cells: Origin and Autoreactivity
Funded at Yale University · NIH-11013339 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at special immune cells called atypical B cells to see how they help our bodies fight infections and respond to vaccines, especially as we age or if we have autoimmune conditions, with the goal of creating better vaccines and treatments for everyone.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project start | January 19, 2024 |
| Project end | November 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $203,094 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI178097-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11013339 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with autoimmune conditions or those interested in understanding their immune response as they age.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have autoimmune conditions or are not concerned about age-related immune responses may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of atypical B cells in the immune system, particularly how they respond to infections and vaccinations. It focuses on understanding how these cells differentiate into long-lived plasma cells and memory B cells, which are crucial for providing long-term protection against pathogens. By examining the characteristics of these B cells, especially in the context of aging and autoimmune conditions, the research aims to enhance vaccine development and improve immune responses. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to more effective vaccines and treatments for autoimmune diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved vaccine strategies and treatments for autoimmune diseases, enhancing patient protection against infections.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of memory B cells in immune responses, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Yale University
New Haven, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Craft, Joseph Edgar — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Craft, Joseph Edgar
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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.