Understanding how certain immune cells affect asthma in the lungs
Function and regulation of mucosal associated invariant T cells in the lung
This study is looking at how special immune cells called MAIT cells affect asthma, and it hopes to find out if boosting these cells can help reduce allergy symptoms in the lungs, which could lead to better treatments for people with asthma.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Newark, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-10850714 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of mucosal associated invariant T (MAIT) cells in asthma, a condition that poses significant health challenges. By analyzing lung samples from individuals with severe asthma and healthy controls, the study aims to uncover how MAIT cells contribute to airway inflammation and hyperresponsiveness. The researchers will also explore whether increasing the number of MAIT cells can reduce allergic reactions in the lungs, using both animal models and engineered probiotics. This approach could lead to new therapeutic strategies for asthma management.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with severe asthma, particularly those who experience frequent allergic reactions.
Not a fit: Patients with asthma who do not have a deficiency of MAIT cells or those with other underlying respiratory conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments that reduce asthma symptoms and improve quality of life for patients.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have suggested a potential link between MAIT cells and asthma, indicating that this research could build on promising findings, although the specific approach is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Newark, UNITED STATES
- Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences — Newark, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yang, Qi — Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Yang, Qi
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 below.