How heme affects the function of immune cells in the body

Intracellular trafficking of the essential signaling metabolite heme in myeloid cells: impact on physiology and disease

['FUNDING_R01'] · SCRIPPS RESEARCH INSTITUTE, THE · NIH-10990452

This study is looking at how a substance called heme affects certain immune cells in your body, which could help us understand better how these cells work during inflammation and lead to new treatments for immune-related diseases.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorSCRIPPS RESEARCH INSTITUTE, THE (nih funded)
Locations1 site (LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10990452 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of heme, an essential metabolite, in the differentiation and function of myeloid cells, which include monocytes and macrophages. By examining how heme influences these immune cells in their local tissue environment, the study aims to uncover new insights into their physiological roles and how they respond to inflammation. The research employs various experimental approaches, including genetic manipulation in mice, to understand the underlying mechanisms of heme signaling and its impact on immune cell behavior. Patients may benefit from this research as it could lead to new therapeutic strategies for diseases involving immune dysfunction.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals with immune-related disorders or those undergoing treatments that affect myeloid cell function.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to immune system function may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to novel treatments for conditions related to immune system dysfunction.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding metabolic signals in immune cell function, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.