Understanding how immune system mutations affect Lyme disease symptoms
Role of human innate immune mutations in loss of tolerance to Borrelia burgdorferi
This study is looking at how specific genetic changes in our immune system affect how our bodies react to the bacteria that causes Lyme disease, which could help explain why some people feel worse than others when they get sick.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Tufts University Boston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10912549 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how certain genetic mutations in the human immune system influence the body's response to Borrelia burgdorferi, the bacteria that causes Lyme disease. It focuses on the innate immune receptors that detect this bacteria and how their dysfunction can lead to increased inflammation and symptoms in humans. By studying both human samples and animal models, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms behind immune tolerance and inflammation in response to prolonged exposure to the bacteria. This could help identify why some individuals experience severe symptoms while others do not.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Lyme disease who exhibit significant inflammatory responses.
Not a fit: Patients who have not been diagnosed with Lyme disease or those with mild symptoms may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for Lyme disease by targeting the underlying immune responses.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding immune responses can lead to breakthroughs in treating infectious diseases, suggesting potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Tufts University Boston — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hu, Linden T — Tufts University Boston
- Study coordinator: Hu, Linden T
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.