How gene switches control human natural killer cells
Transcriptional Regulation of human natural killer cell function
This work looks at which genes control natural killer (NK) cells to help protect people—especially newborns and those with weak immune systems—from viruses like cytomegalovirus.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11330505 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project studies the genetic and epigenetic switches that make human NK cells kill infected cells and multiply. Researchers used gene-editing (CRISPR) on human blood-derived NK cells, examined blood samples from patients with MEF2C haploinsufficiency, and used mouse models to follow how loss of key genes changes antiviral NK responses. They combine molecular tests (including chromatin and transcription analyses) with functional assays of killing, proliferation, and cytokine production. The goal is to link specific transcription factors to real NK cell behavior relevant to viral infections.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People who might be involved include those with recurrent viral infections, congenital cytomegalovirus exposure, immunodeficiency (for example AIDS or transplant recipients), or patients with MEF2C haploinsufficiency who can provide blood samples.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to immune cell function (for example isolated metabolic or structural disorders) are unlikely to benefit or be eligible for this work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could point to ways to boost NK cell function or correct defects to better protect newborns and immunocompromised patients from severe viral infections.
How similar studies have performed: Related mouse and ex vivo human work has already shown that transcription factors can control NK cell responses, but translating those findings into patient treatments remains early.
Where this research is happening
Los Angeles, United States
- University of California Los Angeles — Los Angeles, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: O'sullivan, Timothy E — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: O'sullivan, Timothy E
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.