How macrophages manage cell drinking and inflammation
Official title: SHP1 Phosphatase/SYK Kinase Balance Controls the Actin Economy and Macropinocytosis in Macrophages
Funded at South Dakota State University · NIH-11035188 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain immune cells called macrophages take in and process materials from their surroundings, which is important for understanding and improving treatments for autoimmune diseases and inflammation.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | South Dakota State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Brookings, United States) |
| Project start | March 20, 2022 |
| Project end | January 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $353,281 |
| NIH project number | 5P20GM135008-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11035188 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with autoimmune conditions or those experiencing chronic inflammation.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-autoimmune related conditions or those not experiencing inflammation may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which macrophages, a type of immune cell, regulate their ability to 'drink' and process materials from their environment, a process known as macropinocytosis. The study focuses on understanding the balance between two proteins, SHP1 phosphatase and SYK kinase, which play crucial roles in controlling the dynamics of actin, a protein that helps maintain cell structure and movement. By using advanced imaging techniques, researchers will observe how these proteins influence the efficiency of macropinocytosis in response to different inflammatory signals. The ultimate goal is to uncover new insights that could lead to better treatments for autoimmune diseases and inflammation-related conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for managing autoimmune diseases and improving wound healing.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding the molecular mechanisms of immune cell functions can lead to significant advancements in treatment strategies, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
South Dakota State University
Brookings, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Thiex, Natalie Wendt — South Dakota State University
- Study coordinator: Thiex, Natalie Wendt
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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.