How genes and cell metabolism control macrophages, the immune cleanup cells
Genetic and metabolic regulation of macrophage activation at steady state
Researchers are using zebrafish and lab methods to learn how genetic changes and cellular metabolism make macrophages switch on or off, which matters for people with inflammatory or autoimmune conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chapel Hill, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11142662 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
The team uses zebrafish because they allow precise genetic edits, live imaging, and faster screening to watch macrophages in whole organs like the liver and intestine. They combine genetic tools (including CRISPR), metabolic measurements, and high-throughput screens to see which genes and metabolic pathways change macrophage activation. Experiments trace how macrophages shift between activity states and whether intracellular processes alone can drive those changes. Findings aim to connect basic cell behavior to inflammation seen in autoimmune diseases and cancer.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This project is lab-based and does not enroll human patients; it uses zebrafish and cellular experiments rather than clinical volunteers.
Not a fit: People without immune- or inflammation-related conditions are unlikely to see direct benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to new ways to prevent or reduce harmful inflammation by targeting macrophage genes or metabolism.
How similar studies have performed: Previous cell and animal studies have shown that changing macrophage metabolism can alter inflammation, but translating those findings to human treatments remains early and experimental.
Where this research is happening
Chapel Hill, United States
- Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill — Chapel Hill, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shiau, Celia E — Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill
- Study coordinator: Shiau, Celia 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.