Understanding how certain immune cells contribute to organ damage in chronic graft versus host disease.

Role of macrophage polarization in multi-organ fibrosis of chronic GVHD

NIH-funded research Ohio State University · NIH-10684854

This study is looking at how certain immune cells called macrophages contribute to scarring in patients with chronic graft versus host disease after a stem cell transplant, and it aims to find new ways to help manage this condition.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionOhio State University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Columbus, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10684854 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of specific immune cells, known as macrophages, in causing fibrosis, or scarring, in patients with chronic graft versus host disease (cGVHD) following stem cell transplants. The study focuses on how these macrophages can change their behavior to promote fibrosis and aims to identify the underlying mechanisms that drive this process. By using both mouse models and human tissue samples, the researchers will explore the signaling pathways involved in this immune response, particularly the hedgehog signaling pathway. The ultimate goal is to provide insights that could lead to new therapeutic strategies for managing cGVHD-related complications.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have undergone allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation and are experiencing symptoms of chronic graft versus host disease.

Not a fit: Patients who have not undergone stem cell transplantation or do not have chronic graft versus host disease may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that reduce fibrosis and improve the quality of life for patients suffering from chronic graft versus host disease.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding immune cell behavior in similar conditions, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Columbus, 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.