Understanding immune responses in muscle infected by Toxoplasma
T Regulatory cell responses in Toxoplasma-infected muscle
This study is looking at how a part of your immune system, called regulatory T cells, reacts to a common infection that can affect your muscles, and it hopes to find ways to help reduce inflammation and repair any damage caused by the infection.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | State University of New York at Buffalo NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Amherst, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11012820 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the immune system responds to Toxoplasma gondii infections in muscle tissue, focusing on a specific type of immune cell known as regulatory T cells (Tregs). These Tregs are crucial for controlling inflammation and aiding tissue repair, but in chronic infections, they can become harmful instead. The study aims to uncover the mechanisms by which these Tregs contribute to inflammation and how a cytokine called amphiregulin can help repair the damaged tissue. By exploring these processes, the research seeks to improve our understanding of chronic infections and their impact on muscle health.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with chronic Toxoplasma gondii infections, particularly those experiencing muscle-related symptoms.
Not a fit: Patients without Toxoplasma infections or those with acute infections may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that enhance tissue repair and reduce inflammation in patients with chronic Toxoplasma infections.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using cytokines like amphiregulin to mitigate immune-mediated damage, suggesting potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
Amherst, United States
- State University of New York at Buffalo — Amherst, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wohlfert, Elizabeth — State University of New York at Buffalo
- Study coordinator: Wohlfert, Elizabeth
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.