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Funded Projects

Defining New Paradigms for Epithelial-Immune Interactions in Dysbiosis by Understanding the Response of Tuft Cells to Commensal Microbes

Awarded in 2025
New Investigator Program
Updated Jul 21, 2025

At a Glance

The gut microbiome plays a key role in our health, but poor diets and disease can disrupt its balance, leading to dysbiosis. In Wisconsin, where obesity rates are high, dysbiosis worsens conditions like Inflammatory Bowel Disease and increases the risk of metabolic syndrome. This study investigates how tuft cells, which are specialized gut cells, help maintain intestinal health and immune responses. Findings will enhance understanding of microbiome-gut interactions and guide the analysis of tissue samples from patients with dysbiosis and inflammatory diseases.

More Funded Projects

research icon: microscope and stethoscope
New Investigator Program

Defining Vulvar Cancer Subtypes and Implications for Clinical Outcomes

Year Awarded: 2025
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a common virus that can cause various health issues including certain cancers. Even with an established HPV vaccine, vaccination rates remain below the national average, putting people at risk for infections and related cancers. Particularly in the Midwest, disparities in race, ethnicity, rural or urban location and Medicaid status contribute to high rates of vulvar cancer nationally. This research aims to identify biomarkers of prognosis and treatment response for vulvar cancer, including the role of immune cells and their interactions with HPV in tumor tissues. The outcomes of this research will clarify and provide better treatment options for patients with vulvar and other HPV-related cancers.
research icon: microscope and stethoscope
New Investigator Program

Bridging Cultures: Redefining Registries for Latino Communities Affected by Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementia

Year Awarded: 2025
Latinos represent the fastest-growing population group in Wisconsin but are severely underrepresented in health research studies for dementia, despite having a higher risk and burden of the disease. This study aims to increase the engagement of Latinos in dementia research, which could improve the relevance of the research findings, and the development of interventions and programs better suited to serve Latino communities in Wisconsin.