Understanding how immune cells develop in the female reproductive tract
Official title: Interrogating mucosal resident memory CD8 T cell biology with 3D organoids
Funded at Brown University · NIH-11092856 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain immune cells in the female reproductive system help protect against viruses, using a special lab model that mimics the vaginal environment, to find ways to boost women's defenses against infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brown University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Providence, United States) |
| Project start | May 21, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $198,029 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI183017-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11092856 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are women who are interested in understanding immune responses in the reproductive system, particularly those at risk for viral infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a female reproductive tract or those who are not at risk for viral infections may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the biology of resident memory CD8 T cells in the female reproductive tract, which play a crucial role in protecting against viral infections. By using a three-dimensional organoid model that mimics the vaginal environment, researchers aim to uncover the molecular signals that guide the differentiation of these immune cells. The study involves culturing these organoids with CD8 T cells to observe how they develop and respond to potential threats. This approach could lead to a better understanding of how to enhance antiviral immunity in women.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could improve strategies for preventing and treating viral infections in the female reproductive tract.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using organoid models to study immune cell behavior, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Brown University
Providence, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Beura, Lalit K — Brown University
- Study coordinator: Beura, Lalit K
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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.