DNA nanodevices to probe and control immune cells
DNA nanodevices for molecular interrogation and regulation of lymphocytes in adaptive immune system
This project builds tiny DNA-made devices to measure and influence forces in B and T immune cells so researchers can better understand immune responses and autoimmunity.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11312658 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers will design and build nanoscale devices made from DNA that can attach to B cells and T cells and report tiny mechanical forces or deliver molecular signals. The team will create arrays of multivalent force probes and multiplexed tension sensors to watch how immune receptors interact and respond. Experiments will use isolated immune cells and advanced imaging to map mechanical signals at the molecular level. The goal is to reveal how physical forces regulate immune activation and cross-talk that can contribute to autoimmune disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with autoimmune conditions or anyone willing to donate blood or immune cell samples for lab research would be most relevant to this work.
Not a fit: Patients seeking an immediate treatment or those without immune-related conditions are unlikely to receive direct benefits from this basic laboratory research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, these tools could help scientists discover new ways that immune cells become activated or dysregulated, which may lead to better diagnostics or therapies for autoimmune and immune-related disorders.
How similar studies have performed: DNA-based biosensors and molecular tension probes have shown promise in laboratory studies, but applying advanced DNA nanodevices specifically to B- and T-cell mechanobiology is relatively new.
Where this research is happening
Atlanta, United States
- Emory University — Atlanta, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ke, Yonggang — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Ke, Yonggang
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.