How macrophages and G proteins affect gut inflammation
Modulation of Macrophage Polarization by Heterotrimeric G proteins: Implications of Gastrointestinal Inflammation
Looks at whether changing signals inside immune cells called macrophages can help clear bacteria and reduce gut inflammation for people with Crohn's disease and related infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11320511 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This work looks at how macrophages — immune cells that remove bacteria — use a sensor called NOD2 and a regulator called GIV to control a signaling molecule called cAMP. The team manipulates G protein signaling in cells and in animal models of colitis and sepsis and studies how NOD2 genetic changes affect bacterial clearance and inflammation. Laboratory experiments include cell-based assays, genetic models, and tissue analyses to map the molecular steps that switch macrophages between pro-inflammatory and bacteria-killing states. The goal is to identify targets that could restore bacterial killing without causing excessive gut inflammation.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with Crohn's disease or other inflammatory bowel diseases, especially those with known NOD2-related immune changes, are the most relevant group for these findings.
Not a fit: Individuals with non-immune digestive problems or conditions not driven by macrophage/NOD2/cAMP pathways are unlikely to see direct benefits from this work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could point to new ways to help the immune system clear gut bacteria while reducing damaging inflammation in Crohn's disease and related conditions.
How similar studies have performed: Prior studies have linked NOD2 and cAMP signaling to Crohn's disease and macrophage function, but targeting the GIV–G protein interaction is a newer and less-tested approach.
Where this research is happening
La Jolla, United States
- University of California, San Diego — La Jolla, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ghosh, Pradipta — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Ghosh, Pradipta
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.