Understanding how immune cells develop and function in health and disease
Official title: Ontogeny and kinetics of innate immune cells in health and disease
Funded at Medical College of Wisconsin · NIH-11019868 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at special immune cells called macrophages that help keep our tissues healthy and respond to injuries, using a clear fish model to watch them in action without any surgery, so we can better understand how they work in both healthy and sick bodies.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Medical College of Wisconsin NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Milwaukee, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2025 |
| Project end | December 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $390,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R35GM156844-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11019868 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals with conditions that affect the immune system or those interested in the biological mechanisms of aging and tissue health.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with acute, non-immune related conditions or those outside the age range of 21+ years may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the development and behavior of tissue-resident macrophages, which are crucial immune cells found in various tissues throughout the body. By using a unique transparent vertebrate model, Danionella cerebrum, researchers aim to observe these cells in real-time without invasive procedures. The study focuses on how these macrophages contribute to tissue health and respond to injury, providing insights into their roles in both normal physiology and disease states. This innovative approach allows for a detailed analysis of immune cell dynamics in living organisms.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for enhancing immune responses and treating diseases related to immune dysfunction.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research using similar innovative models has shown promise in understanding immune cell behavior, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Medical College of Wisconsin
Milwaukee, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lam, Pui Ying — Medical College of Wisconsin
- Study coordinator: Lam, Pui Ying
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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.