How a specific protein affects the energy and function of immune cells that fight viruses
Official title: Transcriptional regulation of NK cell metabolism and effector function by MEF2C
Funded at University of California Los Angeles · NIH-11014349 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called MEF2C helps natural killer (NK) cells, which are important for fighting off viruses, work better, and it aims to find new ways to boost the immune response for people who have trouble with their NK cells.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $44,651 |
| NIH project number | 5F30AI181449-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11014349 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with NK cell deficiencies or those who are at high risk for viral infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with robust NK cell function or those not affected by viral infections may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the MEF2C protein in regulating the metabolism and effectiveness of natural killer (NK) cells, which are crucial for fighting viral infections. By understanding how MEF2C influences NK cell energy production and their ability to respond to viruses, researchers aim to uncover new therapeutic targets for enhancing antiviral immunity. The study employs advanced techniques, including CRISPR-Cas9, to manipulate MEF2C in both human and mouse NK cells, assessing the impact on their function during viral infections. This could lead to improved strategies for treating patients with NK cell deficiencies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that enhance the immune response in patients with viral infections.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in enhancing NK cell function through metabolic regulation, suggesting potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California Los Angeles
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Li, Joey H. T. — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Li, Joey H. T.
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.