Finding new ways that inflammatory signals affect cell function
Official title: Identify new mediators of proinflammatory cytokine signaling
Funded at University of Colorado Denver · NIH-11055079 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain proteins involved in inflammation can mess with important cell signals in the body, and it's aimed at finding new ways to help people with conditions like arthritis and diabetes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | November 13, 2024 |
| Project end | October 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $189,150 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AI183064-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11055079 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from inflammatory conditions such as arthritis or metabolic disorders like adult-onset diabetes.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-inflammatory conditions or those not affected by metabolic disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how proinflammatory cytokines, specifically interleukin 1β and tumor necrosis factor alpha, disrupt important cellular signaling pathways like AKT signaling, which is crucial for various physiological processes. The researchers will use advanced techniques such as RNA sequencing and CRISPR screening to identify the genes and factors that mediate these disruptions. By understanding these mechanisms, the research aims to uncover potential targets for therapeutic intervention in diseases linked to inflammation, such as arthritis and diabetes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for inflammatory diseases and metabolic disorders by restoring proper cellular signaling.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in targeting inflammatory pathways to improve treatment outcomes in related conditions, indicating a promising avenue for this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Colorado Denver
Aurora, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Li, Suzhao — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Li, Suzhao
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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.