Understanding how antibodies evolve in the immune system
Official title: Inferring the rules of antibody evolution using replicated germinal centers
Funded at Rockefeller University · NIH-11127418 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain changes in immune cells called B cells help them make better antibodies to fight infections, which could lead to new ways to help patients have stronger immune responses.
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 | July 1, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $812,354 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI180451-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11127418 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions that affect antibody production or those at risk of infections, such as patients with immunodeficiencies or autoimmune diseases.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have any immune system disorders or who are not at risk for infections may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the processes that occur in germinal centers, where immune cells called B cells evolve to produce effective antibodies against infections. By examining the mechanisms of antibody affinity maturation, the study aims to uncover how certain mutations in B cells can enhance their ability to fight diseases. The researchers will utilize advanced techniques, including deep mutational scanning, to analyze the effects of various mutations on antibody function. This work could lead to improved strategies for predicting and controlling antibody responses in patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better vaccines and therapies that enhance the body's ability to produce effective antibodies against infections.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding antibody evolution, but this specific approach using deep mutational scanning is relatively novel.
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
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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.