Federal Project Grant Award Summary

The University of Iowa received a $427,625 Project Grant from the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) under the Allergy and Infectious Diseases Research program (CFDA 93.855), awarded February 11, 2026, with completion scheduled for January 31, 2028. This award supports basic biomedical research focused on identifying novel molecular regulators of T follicular helper (TFH) cell differentiation. TFH cells are critical CD4+ T cell subsets that facilitate B cell development and antibody responses essential for controlling pathogens during chronic viral infections, including HIV-1, hepatitis C virus, and lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus infections. The research aims to elucidate the molecular circuits governing TFH cell differentiation and function, with particular emphasis on understanding how persistent antigen exposure and chronic inflammation dysregulate humoral immune responses.

The research deliverables under this award include scientific investigations into mechanisms that perpetuate dysfunctional TFH cell responses during persistent viral infection, including the delayed development of neutralizing antibodies and excessive production of low-affinity, non-specific antibodies observed in chronic infection settings. By identifying targetable molecular pathways in TFH cell biology, this research is expected to advance the scientific foundation for developing therapeutic interventions to enhance antibody quantity and quality during chronic viral infections, thereby improving humoral immune responses and pathogen control. The project will be conducted at the University of Iowa's Iowa City campus over the 24-month performance period.