Understanding how specific immune cells fight tuberculosis
Official title: Investigating the role of gamma delta (γδ) T cells in the control of Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection
Funded at University of Washington · NIH-10994023 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a special type of immune cell called gamma delta T cells helps the body fight off tuberculosis (TB) by recognizing parts of the bacteria that cause it, which could lead to better treatments for TB in the future.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $48,974 |
| NIH project number | 1F31AI186325-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10994023 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are at risk of or currently infected with tuberculosis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have tuberculosis or are not at risk for the infection may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of gamma delta (γδ) T cells in controlling Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the bacteria responsible for tuberculosis (TB). The study aims to understand how these immune cells recognize specific lipids from the bacteria and how they contribute to the immune response against TB. By analyzing the molecular mechanisms of γδ T cells, particularly a subset known as Vδ1 cells, the research seeks to uncover how these cells enhance the body's ability to fight TB infections. This could lead to new insights into immune responses and potential therapies for TB.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing and treating tuberculosis, potentially saving lives.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding immune responses to tuberculosis, but the specific role of γδ T cells is still being explored, making this a novel investigation.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Washington
Seattle, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tappen, Victoria — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Tappen, Victoria
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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.