Understanding how IL-9 interacts with immune cells to influence autoimmune diseases
Official title: Defining a type II IL-9R
Funded at Indiana University Indianapolis · NIH-10847462 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a special receptor for a protein called IL-9 affects the immune system and inflammation, especially in cells that line the airways, to find new ways to help treat autoimmune and allergic diseases.
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 | May 24, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $198,125 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI173929-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10847462 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with autoimmune diseases or allergic conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-autoimmune or non-allergic conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of a specific receptor for the cytokine IL-9, which is involved in immune responses and inflammation. By exploring how IL-9 signals through this receptor in both immune and non-immune cells, particularly airway epithelial cells, the study aims to uncover new mechanisms that could be targeted for treatment. The researchers will use genetically modified mice and laboratory models to analyze the effects of IL-9 signaling. This approach could lead to new insights into treating autoimmune and allergic diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for patients suffering from autoimmune and allergic conditions.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting cytokine-receptor interactions for treating autoimmune diseases, suggesting potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Indiana University Indianapolis
Indianapolis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kaplan, Mark H — Indiana University Indianapolis
- Study coordinator: Kaplan, Mark H
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Adapting flow cytometry to detect childhood leukemias in Kenya using a single-test screen
A low-cost, blood-based flow cytometry screen in Kenya aims to detect and triage suspected leukemias in children and young adults.
-
Dementia care staff study: adapting a US survey for use in many countries
A study is adapting and testing a survey for dementia care workers in the US, Brazil, Switzerland, and Ghana to help understand why workers stay in their jobs and how to improve care.
-
Dementia care staff study: adapting a survey for use in many countries
A multinational study will adapt and test a U.S. dementia-care worker survey in Brazil, Switzerland, and Ghana to help understand why staff stay in or leave long-term care settings.
-
Study of Dementia Care Staff in 4 Countries: Adapting Caregiver Surveys Across Cultures
A multinational project will adapt and test a dementia care worker survey so researchers can compare care environments across the US, Brazil, Switzerland, and Ghana.
-
Severe malaria and brain risk in children
This grant studies how severe malaria in young children can affect brain development and long-term thinking and behavior, with a focus on kids in Uganda.
-
Tau filament structure in Alzheimer’s and related dementias
Aims to map the detailed 3D shapes of tau protein filaments found in human brain diseases to help develop better diagnostics and treatments for Alzheimer’s-related dementias.
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.