Understanding how certain immune cells are recruited and retained in the colon

The recruitment and retention of colon intraepithelial lymphocytes

NIH-funded research University of Colorado Denver · NIH-10996624

This study is looking at how certain immune cells in the colon help keep your gut healthy and prevent inflammation, especially when dealing with bacteria, which could be helpful for people with conditions like inflammatory bowel disease.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Colorado Denver NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10996624 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of colon intraepithelial lymphocytes (cIELs) in maintaining the intestinal barrier and preventing inflammation. It focuses on how these immune cells are recruited to and retained in the epithelial layer of the colon, particularly in response to luminal bacteria. The study employs various experimental techniques to explore the signaling pathways involved, including the role of myeloid cells and specific signaling molecules. By understanding these mechanisms, the research aims to shed light on the immune response in the colon and its implications for conditions like inflammatory bowel disease.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with inflammatory bowel disease or those experiencing gastrointestinal issues related to intestinal barrier dysfunction.

Not a fit: Patients without gastrointestinal conditions or those who do not have issues related to intestinal barrier integrity may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating inflammatory bowel diseases by enhancing intestinal barrier function.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in understanding immune cell functions in the gut, but this specific focus on cIELs and their recruitment mechanisms is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Aurora, 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.