How cryptochrome proteins affect immune responses to viral infections
Official title: Phosphorylation mimetic motif of cryptochrome proteins blocks IRF3 activation
Funded at Tulane University of Louisiana · NIH-10740889 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain proteins in our body help our immune system fight off viruses, focusing on how they work with a key protein that helps produce important defenses against infections, which could lead to new ways to boost our immune response.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Tulane University of Louisiana NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Orleans, United States) |
| Project start | November 15, 2022 |
| Project end | October 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $191,250 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI168449-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10740889 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with viral infections or those at risk of viral diseases.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-viral infections or those not affected by immune signaling pathways may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of cryptochrome proteins in the immune response, particularly how they interact with a key protein called IRF3 that is involved in fighting viral infections. The study aims to understand how these proteins can either enhance or inhibit the activation of IRF3, which is crucial for producing interferons that help the body respond to viruses. By examining the molecular interactions and modifications of these proteins, the research seeks to uncover new insights into immune signaling pathways. This could lead to better understanding of how the body defends itself against viral infections.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for enhancing the immune response against viral infections.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding immune signaling pathways, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Tulane University of Louisiana
New Orleans, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Li, Shitao — Tulane University of Louisiana
- Study coordinator: Li, Shitao
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.