Understanding how the body reacts to infections and causes sickness symptoms

Characterization of the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying the sickness symptoms

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF UTAH · NIH-10995281

This study is looking at how certain brain cells help cause symptoms like fever and loss of appetite when you're sick, to better understand how your body reacts to infections and how we might help manage those symptoms.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF UTAH (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SALT LAKE CITY, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10995281 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the biological mechanisms that lead to sickness symptoms during acute infections, such as fever and loss of appetite. By studying specific neurons in the brain that respond to immune signals, the research aims to uncover how these signals affect behavior and physiology. The approach involves advanced techniques to manipulate these neurons and observe their effects on sickness symptoms. This could provide insights into how the body naturally responds to infections and how these responses can be managed.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing acute infections that lead to pronounced sickness symptoms.

Not a fit: Patients with chronic illnesses or those not experiencing acute infections may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for managing sickness symptoms during infections, improving patient comfort and recovery.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in understanding immune responses and their effects on behavior, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

SALT LAKE CITY, 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 →

Conditions: acute infection, Alzheimer disease dementia, Alzheimer syndrome, Alzheimer's Disease

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.