Exploring immune functions to improve disease treatment
Unlocking evolutionarily latent immune functions for treating disease
This study is looking at how special proteins help our immune system tell the difference between harmful viruses and our own body’s RNA, with the goal of finding new treatments for conditions like cancer and autoimmune diseases that could help patients feel better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Utah NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Salt Lake City, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10896969 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how certain proteins, known as ADARs, help the immune system distinguish between harmful viral RNA and the body's own RNA. By understanding the role of these proteins in preventing inappropriate immune responses, the research aims to develop new immunotherapies for diseases like cancer and autoimmune disorders. The study involves experiments in various organisms, including mice and a simple worm model, to identify new ways to enhance immune responses against diseases. Patients may benefit from potential new treatments that harness these immune mechanisms.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with cancers or autoimmune diseases who may benefit from enhanced immune therapies.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to immune response or those who do not have cancers or autoimmune diseases may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative therapies that enhance the immune response against cancers and autoimmune diseases.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in utilizing immune checkpoints for cancer treatment, suggesting that this approach could also be effective.
Where this research is happening
Salt Lake City, United States
- University of Utah — Salt Lake City, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bass, Brenda L. — University of Utah
- Study coordinator: Bass, Brenda L.
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.