Federal Project Grant Award Summary

The Medical College of Wisconsin, Inc. received a $675,405 Project Grant from the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) under the Cardiovascular Diseases Research program (CFDA 93.837), awarded June 15, 2026, with completion targeted for April 30, 2030. This research grant funds a mechanistic investigation into regulatory T cell (Treg) reconstitution during graft versus host disease (GVHD), a major complication of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. The research specifically examines how blockade of the interleukin 27 (IL-27)/IL-27 receptor signaling pathway enhances CD4+ Treg survival and suppressive capability while reducing GVHD lethality, with particular focus on the role of gamma interferon lysosomal thiol reductase (GILT) in mediating IL-27 signaling regulation.

The project deliverables include mechanistic research findings delineating pathways by which IL-27R signaling blockade promotes Treg survival and metabolic fitness, characterization of how this pathway alteration impacts the alloreactive donor T cell repertoire, and scientific publications and data contributing to the broader understanding of immunological mechanisms underlying transplant complications. This basic research award supports the advancement of therapeutic strategies to improve outcomes in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation by enhancing post-transplant immune reconstitution and reducing severe GVHD incidence.