NIH-funded research R21 grant

Understanding how certain immune cells contribute to allergic asthma

Official title: Lipid shuttling in memory Th2 cell fate and function in allergic asthma

Funded at Massachusetts General Hospital · NIH-10738803 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how certain immune cells that help cause allergic asthma work and how a specific protein affects them, with the goal of finding new ways to treat people who suffer from this condition.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMassachusetts General Hospital
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project startNovember 10, 2022
Project endOctober 31, 2025
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$252,000
NIH project number5R21AI173732-02
Project IDNIH-10738803 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with allergic asthma, particularly those who experience recurrent symptoms upon allergen exposure.

Less likely to help

Patients with non-allergic asthma or those whose asthma is not driven by Th2 cell responses may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the development and function of memory Th2 cells, which are crucial in driving allergic asthma. By studying how these cells respond to allergens and the role of a specific transcription factor called PPARg in their metabolism, the research aims to uncover new therapeutic targets. The approach involves using murine models to analyze the mechanisms behind these immune responses, potentially leading to innovative treatments for patients with allergic asthma.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that more effectively manage or prevent allergic asthma symptoms.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting immune cell functions in asthma, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

  • Massachusetts General Hospital
    Boston, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Rahimi, Rod Amir — Massachusetts General Hospital
  • Study coordinator: Rahimi, Rod Amir

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.