T follicular helper cells (Tfh) are central players in humoral immunity. However, the signals involved in inducing, directing, and maintaining human Tfh differentiation are poorly understood. In this proposal we show preliminary data identifying novel regulators of human Tfh differentiation. We proposal to validate these findings, identify the molecular mechanisms of action of these regulators, and develop an integrated process for inducing and regulating human Tfh cell differentiation.

Public Health Relevance

Tfh cells are a type of CD4 T cell that are necessary for the development of high quality antibody responses against pathogens. Tfh cells can also be associated with human autoimmune diseases with autoantibody responses. However, we do not understand the signal controlling human Tfh cells. This proposal aims to determine critical signals controlling human Tfh cells.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID)
Type
Research Project (R01)
Project #
7R01AI123738-02
Application #
9667060
Study Section
Cellular and Molecular Immunology - A Study Section (CMIA)
Program Officer
Ferguson, Stacy E
Project Start
2017-07-01
Project End
2022-06-30
Budget Start
2018-04-01
Budget End
2018-06-30
Support Year
2
Fiscal Year
2017
Total Cost
Indirect Cost
Name
University of Pennsylvania
Department
Microbiology/Immun/Virology
Type
Schools of Medicine
DUNS #
042250712
City
Philadelphia
State
PA
Country
United States
Zip Code
19104
Wing, James Badger; Kitagawa, Yohko; Locci, Michela et al. (2017) A distinct subpopulation of CD25- T-follicular regulatory cells localizes in the germinal centers. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 114:E6400-E6409