Understanding how immune cells present antigens to trigger strong immune responses

Toll-like receptor control of endocytic antigen cross-presentation

NIH-funded research Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ · NIH-11088825

This study is looking at how certain immune cells help activate the body's defenses against tough infections like HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria, and it aims to find ways to make vaccines even better at protecting us from these diseases.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWeill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-11088825 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms by which dendritic cells, a type of immune cell, present antigens to activate CD8 T cells, which are crucial for fighting intracellular infections like HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria. The study focuses on how Toll-like receptors (TLRs) can enhance this process, potentially leading to the development of more effective vaccines. By exploring the role of different adjuvants, including alum, the research aims to improve the immune response against these challenging pathogens. Patients may benefit from advancements in vaccine technology that could provide better protection against these diseases.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for or living with intracellular infections such as HIV, tuberculosis, or malaria.

Not a fit: Patients with non-intracellular infections or those who do not have a compromised immune system may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of more effective vaccines that elicit strong immune responses against serious infections.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in enhancing immune responses through similar mechanisms, indicating potential for success in this approach.

Where this research is happening

New York, 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.
Conditions Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome VirusAcquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Virus
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.