Understanding how the immune system responds to C. difficile infections
Official title: Functions of human C. difficile-specific memory B cell-derived monoclonal antibodies
Funded at University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr · NIH-10892828 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how your immune system fights off Clostridioides difficile infections by focusing on special cells that help make antibodies, and it aims to find better treatments or vaccines, with the help of patients who can provide samples.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Oklahoma City, United States) |
| Project start | July 25, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $429,723 |
| NIH project number | 5U19AI174994-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10892828 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation are individuals who have experienced recurrent C. difficile infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have never been infected with C. difficile or those with other unrelated health conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the immune response to Clostridioides difficile infections, particularly focusing on the role of memory B cells and the antibodies they produce. By isolating and analyzing these B cells, the study aims to understand how effectively they can neutralize the toxins produced by the bacteria. The researchers will use advanced techniques to sequence and characterize the antibodies generated in response to infection, which could lead to improved treatments or vaccines. Patients may be involved in providing samples to help identify the most effective immune responses.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better treatments or vaccines for C. difficile infections, reducing recurrence and severity of the disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding immune responses to bacterial infections, but this specific approach focusing on C. difficile is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr
Oklahoma City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lang, Mark L — University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr
- Study coordinator: Lang, Mark L
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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.