How microRNAs control allergy and asthma
MicroRNA directed pathway discovery in allergy and asthma
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO · NIH-11323869
This work looks at tiny gene-regulating molecules called microRNAs to find molecular ways to reduce allergic inflammation in people with asthma.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11323869 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Researchers are studying tiny molecules called microRNAs and long noncoding RNAs that help control immune cells involved in allergic asthma. They focus on the miR-15/16 family and the lncRNA MALAT1 to understand how these RNAs affect regulatory T cells (Tregs) that normally limit allergic inflammation. Using laboratory experiments that map RNA targets and manipulate these molecules in immune cells and model systems, they chart the molecular circuits that drive airway inflammation. The team hopes those circuits will point to new molecular targets for therapies to reduce allergic lung inflammation.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with allergic asthma—especially those with frequent flare-ups or evidence of Th2-driven disease—would be the most relevant candidates for future therapies from this work.
Not a fit: People with non-allergic forms of asthma or airway disease driven by other mechanisms may be less likely to benefit.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could point to new treatments that restore Treg control and reduce allergic asthma symptoms.
How similar studies have performed: Previous laboratory studies support roles for miR-15/16 and MALAT1 in Treg function and allergy models, but translating these findings into human treatments remains experimental.
Where this research is happening
SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO — SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: ANSEL, KARL MARK — UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO
- Study coordinator: ANSEL, KARL MARK
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: Airway Disease