Using nanotechnology to improve transplant tolerance by targeting specific cell interactions.
Official title: Nanotechnology Targeting Novel CD154:CD11b Interactions for Transplant Tolerance
Funded at University of Minnesota · NIH-11063828 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new way to help the body accept transplanted organs better by using tiny particles to block certain immune interactions that can cause rejection, which could lead to better outcomes for patients and less need for strong medications.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Minnesota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project start | April 20, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $1,336,442 |
| NIH project number | 5U19AI174966-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11063828 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are undergoing or are candidates for organ transplantation.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not candidates for organ transplantation or those with contraindications to immunotherapy may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of nanotechnology to block interactions between CD154 and CD11b, which are known to play a role in transplant rejection. By understanding how these interactions affect immune responses, the study aims to enhance the body's tolerance to transplanted organs. The approach involves both laboratory studies and potential applications in non-human primate models to assess the effectiveness of this strategy in preventing allograft rejection. Patients may benefit from improved transplant outcomes and reduced need for immunosuppressive therapies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better transplant acceptance and fewer complications for patients receiving organ transplants.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promise in targeting CD154 for transplant tolerance, but this specific approach using CD11b interactions is novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Minnesota
Minneapolis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ford, Mandy L — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Ford, Mandy L
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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.