Understanding how IgE antibodies affect human immunity to ticks
Role of IgE in human disease and immunity to ticks
['FUNDING_R01'] · VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER · NIH-11059167
This study is looking at how certain antibodies in your body react to tick bites, especially for people who have had multiple bites or have alpha-gal syndrome, to better understand allergies and immunity, and it may help find new ways to treat these conditions.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (NASHVILLE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11059167 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of IgE antibodies in the immune response to tick bites, particularly focusing on how these antibodies can lead to allergic reactions, such as alpha-gal syndrome, or provide protection against future bites. The researchers will collect and analyze IgE antibodies from individuals who have experienced multiple tick bites or have alpha-gal syndrome. By studying these antibodies, the team aims to uncover the mechanisms behind tick-related allergies and immunity, which could lead to new treatment strategies. Patients may be involved in providing blood samples to help identify specific IgE responses.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who have experienced recurrent tick bites or have been diagnosed with alpha-gal syndrome.
Not a fit: Patients who have no history of tick exposure or do not suffer from tick-related allergies may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and management of tick-related allergies, improving quality of life for affected individuals.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding allergic responses to ectoparasites, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
NASHVILLE, UNITED STATES
- VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER — NASHVILLE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: SMITH, SCOTT ALAN — VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER
- Study coordinator: SMITH, SCOTT ALAN
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.
Conditions: Allergic Disease, alpha-gal syndrome