Understanding how the immune system generates antibodies against retroviruses
Official title: Genetic basis for TLR7-independent antiretroviral antibody responses
Funded at University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh · NIH-11094080 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how our body's immune system makes antibodies to fight off certain viral infections, using mice to learn more about the genes and immune signals involved, which could help us find better ways to boost antibody responses in people.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project start | May 23, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $198,750 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI178197-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11094080 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of retroviral infections or those at high risk of such infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a history of retroviral infections or are not at risk may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms behind the production of antibodies that fight retroviral infections. By using animal models, specifically mice, the study aims to uncover how the innate immune system can trigger an adaptive immune response to control viral infections. The focus is on understanding the genetic factors that influence these immune responses, particularly through the role of specific immune receptors. This research could lead to new insights into how to enhance antibody responses in humans.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for developing vaccines or therapies against retroviral infections.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in using animal models to understand immune responses to viral infections, indicating that this approach is promising.
Where this research is happening
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University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kane, Melissa E — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Kane, Melissa E
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.