Understanding how beta3 integrin affects immune responses in heart transplantation

The novel role of beta3 integrin in regulating alloimmunity

NIH-funded research Brigham and Women's Hospital · NIH-11011266

This study is looking at how a protein called beta3 integrin affects the immune system during heart transplants, and it's for anyone interested in improving heart transplant success by finding ways to help the body accept the new heart better.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBrigham and Women's Hospital NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-11011266 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of beta3 integrin in the immune response during heart transplantation. It aims to understand how this protein influences the behavior of immune cells, particularly T cells and platelets, in the context of organ rejection. By studying mice lacking beta3 integrin, the researchers have observed that these mice experience less immune cell infiltration and longer survival of transplanted hearts. The ultimate goal is to develop new therapies that could improve the success of heart transplants by promoting immune tolerance.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients undergoing heart transplantation or those with end-stage heart disease.

Not a fit: Patients who are not candidates for heart transplantation or those with other unrelated medical conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that enhance the survival of heart transplants and reduce the need for long-term immunosuppression.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting integrins to improve transplant outcomes, indicating that this approach may be viable.

Where this research is happening

Boston, 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.