Understanding how immune cells adapt to infections

The IRF regulatory network in innate immune training of macrophages

NIH-funded research University of California Los Angeles · NIH-11133932

This study is looking at how certain immune cells called macrophages learn from past infections to better fight off future ones, which could help develop new ways to boost the immune system for people who need it.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California Los Angeles NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Los Angeles, United States)
Project IDNIH-11133932 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how macrophages, key immune cells, adapt their responses to infections based on their previous encounters with pathogens. By examining the changes in the macrophage's genetic material, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms behind 'innate immune training,' which enhances the cells' ability to fight off future infections. The researchers will focus on specific proteins that regulate these changes and how they work together to influence immune responses. This could lead to new strategies for improving immune function in patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions that compromise their immune system or those at high risk for infections.

Not a fit: Patients with stable immune function and no history of recurrent infections may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for infections by enhancing the immune response in patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding immune cell training, indicating that this approach has potential for significant advancements.

Where this research is happening

Los Angeles, 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.