Understanding how the thymus helps prevent autoimmune diseases from infancy to adulthood
Project 3 - Differential contribution of thymic APCs to central tolerance during the perinatal to adult transition
This study is looking at how a part of your immune system called the thymus helps train your body to recognize what’s safe and what’s not, especially as you grow from a baby into an adult, which could help us understand and prevent autoimmune diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | P01 program project |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10907505 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the thymus in developing immune tolerance, particularly during the critical transition from perinatal to adult stages. It focuses on how specific cells in the thymus, known as antigen-presenting cells, contribute to the selection of T cells that can prevent autoimmune reactions. By utilizing advanced techniques like single-cell transcriptional profiling and multiplex imaging, the study aims to uncover the unique properties of these cells during early life that influence long-term immune health. Patients may benefit from insights into how their immune systems develop and how to better manage or prevent autoimmune conditions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 21 and older who may be at risk for autoimmune diseases or have a family history of such conditions.
Not a fit: Patients with established autoimmune diseases may not directly benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing autoimmune diseases and enhancing immune health throughout life.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding immune tolerance mechanisms, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Houston, United States
- University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr — Houston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ehrlich, Lauren Ilyse Richie — University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr
- Study coordinator: Ehrlich, Lauren Ilyse Richie
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.