Understanding how natural killer cells respond to COVID-19 variants

Defining factors affecting natural killer cells' antibody-dependent responses in COVID-19

['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] · STANFORD UNIVERSITY · NIH-10899178

This study is looking at how special immune cells called natural killer (NK) cells react to different COVID-19 variants, especially in people who have been vaccinated or are on treatments that weaken their immune system, to find ways to boost our body's ability to fight the virus and improve future treatments or vaccines.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorSTANFORD UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (STANFORD, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10899178 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how natural killer (NK) cells, a type of immune cell, respond to COVID-19 variants that may evade the immune system. The study aims to identify factors that influence NK cells' ability to target and destroy virus-infected cells, particularly in the context of vaccination and immunosuppressive treatments. By examining the interactions between NK cells and antibodies, the research seeks to uncover mechanisms that could enhance immune responses against COVID-19. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to improved treatments or vaccines.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who have been vaccinated against COVID-19 or those who have experienced COVID-19 infection.

Not a fit: Patients who are not affected by COVID-19 or who have not received any form of vaccination may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better strategies for enhancing immune responses against COVID-19, potentially improving patient outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in understanding immune responses to viral infections, making this approach both relevant and potentially impactful.

Where this research is happening

STANFORD, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.