How p53 keeps cells stable to prevent self-attacking immune cells
Mechanisms underpinning p53 suppression of chromatin noise and cellular plasticity
This project looks at whether the protein p53 helps thymus cells stay stable so they don't let T cells that attack the body survive.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11331116 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers use thymus cell models to map how the DNA packaging (chromatin) and gene activity change as cells mature. They apply advanced single-cell methods that read chromatin accessibility and gene expression in the same cell to see how p53 controls these features. The team will alter p53 activity and track effects on cell identity and on the selection of T cells that could attack the body. Results may identify molecular steps that lead to the escape of self-reactive T cells and suggest targets for future therapies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with autoimmune diseases or those at high risk of autoimmunity, or individuals willing to donate thymus or blood samples for research, would be most relevant to this work.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment for symptoms unrelated to immune system function are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this basic lab-focused project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal mechanisms that cause autoimmune reactions and point to new ways to prevent or treat autoimmune diseases or related cancers.
How similar studies have performed: While p53 is a well-known player in cancer biology, applying single-cell chromatin profiling to show its role in thymic cell plasticity is a relatively new approach with limited prior clinical translation.
Where this research is happening
Chicago, United States
- University of Chicago — Chicago, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Koh, Andrew S — University of Chicago
- Study coordinator: Koh, Andrew S
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.