Understanding how the immune system recognizes pathogens through molecular shapes
Learning a molecular shape space for the adaptive immune system
This study is looking at how our immune system's B- and T-cells recognize and fight off germs by examining the shapes and building blocks of their receptors, using smart computer techniques to help create better vaccines and treatments for diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10865002 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the adaptive immune system, particularly B- and T-cell receptors, recognizes and neutralizes various pathogens by focusing on the 3D shapes and amino acid compositions of these receptors. By utilizing advanced machine learning techniques, the study aims to create a model that accurately represents the relationship between the sequence of immune receptors and their ability to interact with pathogens. This approach will help quantify the complex interactions that determine immune responses, potentially leading to improved strategies for vaccine development and disease treatment.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with immune system disorders or those who are at risk of infections that could benefit from improved vaccine strategies.
Not a fit: Patients with stable immune conditions who are not at risk for infections may not receive direct benefits from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of immune responses, leading to better vaccines and therapies for infectious diseases.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using machine learning to model protein interactions, indicating that this approach could yield significant insights.
Where this research is happening
Seattle, United States
- University of Washington — Seattle, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Nourmohammad, Armita — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Nourmohammad, Armita
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.