Understanding how immune cells protect the gut from infections
Coordination of T cell-derived signals in intestinal epithelial barrier defense
['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] · UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA AT BIRMINGHAM · NIH-11042780
This study is looking at how special immune cells called T cells help keep the intestines of young children safe from infections that can cause diarrhea, with the goal of finding new ways to treat these illnesses.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA AT BIRMINGHAM (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BIRMINGHAM, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11042780 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how specific immune cells, particularly T cells, help protect the intestinal barrier from infections, especially in young children who are vulnerable to diarrheal diseases. The study aims to uncover the mechanisms that recruit these T cells to the intestinal lining and how they interact with intestinal cells to provide protective signals. By exploring these interactions, the research seeks to identify new therapeutic targets for treating diarrheal illnesses and inflammatory bowel disease. The approach combines molecular biology techniques to study cell signaling and immune responses.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are young children under 11 years old who are at risk for diarrheal illnesses.
Not a fit: Patients who are adults or do not have a history of diarrheal diseases may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that enhance gut protection and reduce the incidence of diarrheal diseases in children.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding immune responses in the gut, suggesting that this approach could lead to significant advancements in treatment.
Where this research is happening
BIRMINGHAM, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA AT BIRMINGHAM — BIRMINGHAM, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: WILSON, CHRISTOPHER GARRETT — UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA AT BIRMINGHAM
- Study coordinator: WILSON, CHRISTOPHER GARRETT
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 below.