How a specific enzyme helps the immune system fight infections
Official title: Essential functions of OGT in host defense mechanism
Funded at Ohio State University · NIH-10765070 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a special enzyme called OGT helps our immune cells work better during infections, with the hope of finding new ways to boost our body's defenses against germs like viruses and bacteria.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ohio State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Columbus, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | September 5, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $387,489 |
| NIH project number | 1R35GM152205-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10765070 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with compromised immune systems or those suffering from infections that may benefit from enhanced immune responses.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with stable immune function and no current infections are unlikely to benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of O-GlcNAc transferase (OGT), an enzyme involved in glucose metabolism, in regulating immune cell functions during infections. By understanding how OGT influences immune cell activation and metabolism, the study aims to identify new strategies for enhancing the body's defense mechanisms against pathogens. The research will explore the metabolic pathways and signaling processes that OGT affects, particularly in the context of viral and bacterial infections. This could lead to innovative approaches for improving immune responses in various diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that enhance the immune system's ability to combat infections and potentially improve outcomes for patients with immune-related disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that metabolic regulation can significantly impact immune cell function, suggesting that this approach may yield promising results.
Where this research is happening
-
Ohio State University
Columbus, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wen, Haitao — Ohio State University
- Study coordinator: Wen, Haitao
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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.