Understanding how the immune system responds to Staphylococcus aureus infections
Official title: Host-driven antibody responses against Staphylococcus aureus
Funded at University of Chicago · NIH-11137735 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how our immune system fights off infections from a common germ called Staphylococcus aureus, which can cause serious skin and blood infections, to help find ways to create better vaccines for people at risk.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | July 12, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $205,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI181332-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11137735 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced recurrent Staphylococcus aureus infections or are at high risk for such infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a history of Staphylococcus aureus infections or those with other unrelated health conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the immune system, specifically antibody responses, reacts to infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus, a common bacterium that can lead to serious skin and bloodstream infections. The study focuses on identifying protective antigens that could help develop effective vaccines against this pathogen. By using mouse models, the researchers will explore the role of specific immune cells and antibodies in controlling and preventing these infections. The findings aim to enhance our understanding of immune responses and improve treatment strategies for patients affected by Staphylococcus aureus.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of effective vaccines or therapies that enhance the immune response against Staphylococcus aureus infections.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding immune responses to bacterial infections, but this specific approach to targeting Staphylococcus aureus is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Golovkina, Tatyana V — University of Chicago
- Study coordinator: Golovkina, Tatyana V
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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.