Basic Research

Basic Research

The work proposed in this application is a pilot study. The data acquired will be used to build the rationale for a larger application (RO1) to the NIH-NEI. Overall, this study explores the use of a large non-human primate, specifically Baboon pluripotent stem cells to a derive RPC system for translational stem cell therapy investigations. The results obtained will allow for experimental treatment development for naturally occurring non-human primate (Baboon) retina degeneration identified in the local Baboon population. This work will be directly translational to humans.

Our findings will help clarify the signaling pathways associated with the developmental changes and activation of aging processes occurring during muscle over an extended time in vitro. Given this, we will be able to determine the optimal time window when these precursors have the highest potential to efficiently engraft a host muscle. Txbiomed Project: 4673

In this application we propose one pilot study to test the efficacy of materials provided by Dr. Ramon Coronado from LSMRI to prevent disease progression in an experimental model of multiple sclerosis (MS) in mice in Dr. Forsthubers laboratory at UTSA.

Current practices for airway management in traumatic injury care are profoundly inadequate. During immediate care of a trauma patient, securing the airway is often the top priority for the attending provider. Studies have shown that tracheal intubation complications occurred in ~20% of attempts. Surgical airways such as cricothyrotomy are often promoted as an alternative, but pre-hospital failure rates ranging from 18-33% suggest this approach is not a viable solution.

The project is a proof-of-concept study to evaluate the potential of a novel process for the facile detection of pathogens in the field.  Using Marburg virus as our model pathogen we will assess the feasibility and sensitivity of the system.

This program will test the immunogenicity and efficacy of a novel HIV vaccine.

We propose a strategy of host derived IL-10 modulation, strictly at the time of vaccination for generating a qualitatively different set of T cells resulting in sustained long-term protection against M.tb infection in mice.

Kawasaki disease is a common infectious disease of childhood, whose after-effects cause lifelong damage to the heart. In the developed world, it is the leading cause of acquired heart disease in children, outpacing rheumatic heart disease for the last several decades. Many children with Kawasaki disease require life-long medications to prevent complications of the disease, as well as frequent and intensive follow up with cardiologists. Rates of interventional procedures and adverse events later in life can be very high.