Understanding how memory T cells affect heart transplant outcomes

Endogenous memory T cell mediated rejection of high-risk cardiac allografts

NIH-funded research Cleveland Clinic Lerner Com-Cwru · NIH-10891423

This study is looking at how certain immune cells called memory T cells affect the success of heart transplants, especially when the donor heart has been stored for a long time, to help find ways to improve transplant outcomes for patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionCleveland Clinic Lerner Com-Cwru NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Cleveland, United States)
Project IDNIH-10891423 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of memory T cells in the rejection of heart transplants, particularly focusing on how these cells react when a donor heart is stored for a long time before transplantation. The study aims to uncover the mechanisms that lead to acute rejection episodes and poor graft function, which are critical challenges in transplant medicine. By examining the inflammatory responses and cellular interactions that occur during and after transplantation, the research seeks to identify potential targets for improving transplant success rates. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to better management strategies for heart transplant recipients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals awaiting heart transplantation, particularly those with a history of donor-reactive T cells.

Not a fit: Patients who are not candidates for heart transplantation or those with no history of T cell sensitization may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved outcomes for heart transplant patients by minimizing rejection episodes and enhancing graft survival.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that understanding immune responses in transplant settings can lead to significant advancements in transplant medicine, suggesting a promising avenue for this research.

Where this research is happening

Cleveland, 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.
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.