How cell receptors recognize small molecules and signal infection
An integrative structural biology approach to understanding metabolite recognition by cellular receptors
This project learns how a cell protein called MR1 binds small molecules so the immune system can flag infected or abnormal cells.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Children's Hosp of Philadelphia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11085501 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
From a patient's view, researchers are using advanced lab techniques like structural biology and NMR to map how the MR1 protein holds and shows small molecules on the cell surface. They will examine how MR1 changes shape when different molecules bind and how helper proteins assist that process. The team will also study ways viruses such as CMV, HSV, and SARS-CoV-2 can interfere with MR1 function. All work is done in the lab on proteins and cells to build knowledge that might guide future tests or treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People affected by viral infections mentioned in the project (for example CMV, HSV, or COVID-19) or individuals willing to donate blood or tissue samples for laboratory research would be most relevant.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate clinical treatment are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this basic laboratory research in the short term.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could enable new diagnostics or therapies that help the immune system better detect and target infected or diseased cells.
How similar studies have performed: Prior structural and functional studies have provided important insights into MR1, but this project applies new NMR and biophysical approaches to uncover dynamic features that remain uncharacterized.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- Children's Hosp of Philadelphia — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sgourakis, Nikolaos — Children's Hosp of Philadelphia
- Study coordinator: Sgourakis, Nikolaos
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.