Understanding how obesity affects immune responses
Dissecting the mechanism of altered immune responses during obesity
This study is looking at how being overweight affects your immune system, especially certain cells that help fight infections and respond to vaccines, to find better ways to help people with obesity stay healthy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Science Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Antonio, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11058142 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the changes in immune responses associated with obesity, focusing on specific immune cells like B cells that may contribute to inflammation and metabolic diseases. The study aims to understand how obesity alters the immune system's ability to respond to infections and vaccines, particularly in the context of the recent coronavirus pandemic. By examining immune cell populations in both humans and animal models, the researchers hope to uncover mechanisms that could lead to improved treatments and interventions for obese patients.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are classified as obese.
Not a fit: Patients who are not obese or do not have related metabolic conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better vaccine responses and treatment strategies for obese individuals, improving their overall health outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding immune responses in obesity can lead to significant advancements in treatment strategies, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
San Antonio, United States
- University of Texas Hlth Science Center — San Antonio, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Leadbetter, Elizabeth Ann — University of Texas Hlth Science Center
- Study coordinator: Leadbetter, Elizabeth Ann
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.