Understanding Immune Protection Against C. difficile
Functions of human C. difficile-specific memory B cell-derived monoclonal antibodies
This research aims to understand how our immune system, specifically memory B cells, protects against recurring C. difficile infections.
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 ID | NIH-11134716 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
C. difficile infections can be very serious, especially when they keep coming back. We know that certain antibodies, called IgG, can help protect against the C. difficile toxin, but we don't fully understand why some people get repeat infections. This project looks closely at the immune cells, called memory B cells, from people who have had C. difficile to see how they respond. By studying these cells and the antibodies they produce, we hope to learn why some immune responses are better at fighting off the infection than others.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research focuses on understanding the immune responses of individuals who have experienced C. difficile infections.
Not a fit: Patients who have never had a C. difficile infection would not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to better ways to prevent C. difficile recurrence or develop more effective treatments by improving our understanding of the immune system's role.
How similar studies have performed: While the role of antibodies in C. difficile protection is known, this specific approach of deeply analyzing human memory B cells and their antibody functions is a novel area of investigation.
Where this research is happening
Oklahoma City, United States
- 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
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.