Understanding how certain immune cells contribute to allergic responses
Official title: TFH cell programming for IgE responses
Funded at Indiana University Indianapolis · NIH-10804654 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain immune cells called T follicular helper cells help produce IgE antibodies, which are important in allergies, to better understand how we can manage allergic reactions and improve treatments for people with allergies.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Indiana University Indianapolis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Indianapolis, United States) |
| Project start | March 10, 2023 |
| Project end | February 28, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $190,061 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI176762-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10804654 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with allergies, particularly those who experience severe allergic reactions or anaphylaxis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without any history of allergic reactions or those who do not produce IgE antibodies may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of T follicular helper (TFH) cells in the production of IgE antibodies, which are crucial in allergic reactions and anaphylaxis. By studying how these cells develop and function in response to allergens, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms that lead to high-affinity IgE production. The approach involves analyzing gene expression in TFH cells under different conditions to determine what influences their development and activity. This could provide insights into potential therapeutic targets for managing allergic diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating severe allergic reactions and anaphylaxis.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding immune responses related to allergies, but this specific approach to studying TFH cells is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Indiana University Indianapolis
Indianapolis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Dent, Alexander L — Indiana University Indianapolis
- Study coordinator: Dent, Alexander L
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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.