Understanding how our body's cells fight bacterial infections
Decoding the Interferome by Mapping Genetic Interactions in Human Tissue
This project explores how our body's non-immune cells use a natural defense system to protect against bacterial infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Columbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11136880 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies have many non-immune cells that can sometimes hide places for bacteria to grow. This work looks at how a natural defense signal, called interferon-gamma, helps these everyday cells fight off infections. We want to discover how different defense genes, collectively known as the 'interferome', work together in these cells to create a strong response against bacteria. By mapping these complex gene interactions in human tissue, we hope to better understand our body's natural ability to protect itself from invaders.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not directly involve patient participation but aims to understand basic human biology relevant to those susceptible to or suffering from bacterial infections.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate new treatments for bacterial infections would not directly benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to boost the body's natural defenses against bacterial infections, especially in cells that are not traditionally considered immune cells.
How similar studies have performed: Previous work by the researcher has shown that interferon-gamma can activate non-immune cells to fight infections, and this project builds upon that understanding by exploring the complex genetic networks involved.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Columbia University Health Sciences — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gaudet, Ryan Gilbert — Columbia University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Gaudet, Ryan Gilbert
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.