Understanding how antibodies interact with immune cells to fight viruses.
Official title: Dissecting mechanisms of antibody-Fc interactions that shape innate immune antiviral responses.
Funded at Washington State University · NIH-10989894 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how antibodies can help boost the body's immune response against viruses like COVID-19, with the goal of making antibody treatments work better for everyone.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pullman, United States) |
| Project start | November 17, 2023 |
| Project end | October 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $215,261 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI176078-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10989894 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals affected by viral infections, particularly those caused by the 2019 novel coronavirus.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have viral infections or those who are not responsive to antibody therapies may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which antibodies activate innate immune cells to enhance antiviral responses, particularly against the 2019 novel coronavirus. It focuses on the interactions between the Fc domain of antibodies and Fc-receptors on immune cells, aiming to clarify how these interactions can be optimized for better therapeutic outcomes. By analyzing the functions of different Fc-receptors, the study seeks to improve monoclonal antibody therapies for infectious diseases. This work could lead to more effective antibody-based treatments by understanding how to harness the immune system's natural defenses.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of more effective antibody therapies for viral infections, improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in leveraging antibody interactions for therapeutic purposes, indicating potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington State University
Pullman, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gunn, Bronwyn Mei — Washington State University
- Study coordinator: Gunn, Bronwyn Mei
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.