How immune sensors tell your own DNA/RNA apart from invaders
Regulation of TLR trafficking for proper self versus non-self discrimination
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA BERKELEY · NIH-11249179
Researchers are figuring out how certain immune sensors that detect DNA and RNA are kept from mistakenly attacking the body's own cells, which matters for people with autoimmune diseases like lupus and psoriasis.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA BERKELEY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BERKELEY, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11249179 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This project studies molecular steps that control two immune receptors, TLR7 and TLR9, that can react to RNA and DNA. Scientists will use cell experiments, genetic CRISPR-based screens, and mouse models to map how a chaperone protein called Unc93b1 limits harmful TLR7 activation. The team will compare how TLR7 and TLR9 are trafficked inside cells and identify genes and pathways that prevent self-recognition. Findings aim to explain why these mechanisms differ and how their disruption leads to autoimmunity.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with autoimmune conditions linked to nucleic-acid sensing, such as lupus or psoriasis, would be the most likely to benefit or be relevant to this research.
Not a fit: Patients whose conditions are unrelated to nucleic-acid sensing TLR pathways or who need immediate clinical therapies may not see direct benefit from this laboratory-focused research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to new targets to prevent or treat autoimmune diseases driven by mistaken recognition of self DNA or RNA.
How similar studies have performed: The team and others have previously identified key mechanisms in cells and mice, but translating those findings into human treatments remains early and exploratory.
Where this research is happening
BERKELEY, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA BERKELEY — BERKELEY, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: BARTON, GREGORY M — UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA BERKELEY
- Study coordinator: BARTON, GREGORY M
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.
Conditions: Autoimmune Diseases