Understanding Tfh13 cells that cause severe allergic reactions
Official title: Generation & Regulation of Tfh13 cells that drive Pathogenic IgE in Allergy
Funded at Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester · NIH-11027722 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a special type of immune cell that helps create the antibodies responsible for serious allergic reactions, especially in kids with food and environmental allergies, to find new ways to prevent or lessen these reactions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Worcester, United States) |
| Project start | November 12, 2024 |
| Project end | October 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $586,250 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AI187460-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11027722 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children under 11 years old who suffer from food or environmental allergies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have allergies or are over the age of 11 may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a specific type of immune cell, Tfh13 cells, which play a crucial role in the production of harmful IgE antibodies that lead to severe allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis. The study aims to uncover how these cells differentiate during allergic sensitization, particularly in children with food and environmental allergies. By examining the mechanisms behind Tfh13 cell development, the research seeks to identify potential targets for new treatments that could prevent or mitigate allergic responses. Patients may be involved in providing samples or data to help understand these processes better.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that reduce the risk of severe allergic reactions in children.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding immune responses in allergies, but the specific focus on Tfh13 cells is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester
Worcester, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Uthaman, Gowthaman — Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester
- Study coordinator: Uthaman, Gowthaman
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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.