Understanding how immune cells produce antibodies and survive over time
Official title: Biochemical Mechanisms for Sustained Humoral Immunity
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11011460 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain immune cells that help fight infections can live longer and work better by responding to signals in their surroundings, which could lead to better treatments for diseases that affect antibody production.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | February 23, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $601,509 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI175185-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11011460 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions that affect antibody production or autoimmune diseases.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with acute infections that do not involve long-lived plasma cell responses may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the biochemical mechanisms that allow long-lived plasma cells, which are crucial for producing antibodies, to survive and function effectively. The study focuses on how these cells sense signals in their environment, particularly through a receptor called P2rX4, and how this affects their ability to secrete antibodies and avoid cell death. By examining the role of extracellular ATP and its production in the bone marrow, the research aims to uncover the pathways that support the longevity and activity of these immune cells. Patients may benefit from insights gained into improving antibody responses in various diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to enhanced understanding and treatment strategies for conditions related to antibody production and immune response.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding immune cell longevity and function, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Allman, David M — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Allman, David M
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.