Understanding how metabolism affects immune cell function in newborns
Dissecting the role of CD38 and metabolism in the heightened Treg potential of human neonatal naïve CD4+ T cells
This study is looking at how the way immune cells in newborns use energy affects their ability to become special cells that help keep the immune system balanced, and it aims to find ways to improve this process to help babies' immune systems respond better to their environment.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11158529 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the metabolism of immune cells, specifically naïve CD4+ T cells in newborns, influences their ability to become regulatory T cells (Tregs). By examining the role of CD38, a metabolic enzyme, the study aims to uncover how these cells respond to environmental antigens after birth. The approach includes pharmacological interventions to inhibit CD38 and assess the resulting changes in Treg differentiation. This research is crucial for developing therapies that enhance immune tolerance in infants.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are newborns and infants who are experiencing immune system development and may be at risk for allergic diseases.
Not a fit: Patients who are older than 21 years or those with established immune disorders may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for managing immune responses in newborns, potentially reducing the risk of allergic diseases and enhancing overall pediatric health.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding immune cell metabolism, suggesting that this approach could yield significant insights into neonatal immune function.
Where this research is happening
San Francisco, United States
- University of California, San Francisco — San Francisco, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Dwyer, Laura — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Dwyer, Laura
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.