Understanding how the immune system fights hepatitis C virus
Official title: Defining successful intrahepatic CD4+ T cell responses against the hepatitis C virus
Funded at Research Inst Nationwide Children's Hosp · NIH-11108516 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a type of immune cell called CD4+ T cells helps the body fight the hepatitis C virus, with the goal of finding ways to create a vaccine that can protect people from this virus.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Research Inst Nationwide Children's Hosp NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Columbus, United States) |
| Project start | March 21, 2025 |
| Project end | February 28, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $483,194 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AI190069-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11108516 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals at risk of hepatitis C infection or those who have recently been diagnosed with acute hepatitis C.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are already chronically infected with hepatitis C and have not responded to existing antiviral treatments may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the immune response of CD4+ T cells against the hepatitis C virus (HCV), which affects millions worldwide. The study aims to identify the specific characteristics of CD4+ T cells that contribute to effective immunity against HCV, particularly in the context of vaccine development. By analyzing blood samples and immune responses, the researchers hope to uncover how these T cells can support the body's ability to fight off the virus and prevent chronic infection. This work is crucial for developing a vaccine that could provide long-lasting protection against HCV.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of an effective vaccine against hepatitis C, significantly reducing new infections and improving public health.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding immune responses to hepatitis C, but this specific approach to defining CD4+ T cell responses is novel and could provide new insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Research Inst Nationwide Children's Hosp
Columbus, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Walker, Christopher M. — Research Inst Nationwide Children's Hosp
- Study coordinator: Walker, Christopher M.
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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.