How cytokine signals influence the fate of CD8 T cells
Official title: Molecular mechanisms of CD8 T cell fate decision instructed by cytokine signaling
Funded at Washington University · NIH-10992192 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how certain immune cells called CD8 T cells choose to either fight off infections quickly or stick around as long-term defenders after being activated by viruses or vaccines, focusing on the signals they receive that help make this important decision.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | December 1, 2023 |
| Project end | October 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $566,110 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI176664-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10992192 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have recently been vaccinated or infected with a virus and have a measurable immune response.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with chronic infections or those who do not mount a significant immune response may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how CD8 T cells, which are crucial for immune responses, decide whether to become short-lived effector cells or long-lasting memory cells after activation by viral infections or vaccinations. The study focuses on the role of cytokine signaling, particularly through the IL-2 receptor, in shaping the gene regulatory networks that guide these fate decisions. By examining the molecular mechanisms involved, the research aims to uncover how specific signals during the initial activation phase can lead to different outcomes for T cell survival and function.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for enhancing immune memory, potentially benefiting vaccine development and therapies for viral infections.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding T cell differentiation and memory formation, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Egawa, Takeshi — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Egawa, Takeshi
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.