How Pim1 helps 'killer' CD8 T cells keep fighting long-term viral infections
Pim1 regulates metabolic adaptation of effector CD8 cells during chronic viral infection
['FUNDING_R21'] · NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY · NIH-11230250
Researchers are looking at whether the protein Pim1 helps CD8 'killer' T cells stay active and avoid exhaustion during chronic viral infections.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R21'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (CHICAGO, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11230250 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
I'm curious about why immune 'killer' T cells tire out during long-term infections, and this project focuses on a protein called Pim1 that may help certain CD8 cells stay metabolically fit. The team uses laboratory models of chronic viral infection and examines different CD8 subsets to see how Pim1 affects their energy use, mitochondrial function, and long-term survival. They measure metabolic pathways like glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation and link those patterns to whether cells act as durable effectors or become exhausted. The work aims to reveal whether supporting Pim1-related pathways could keep antiviral T cells working longer.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People living with chronic viral infections (for example, long-term hepatitis or HIV) or those interested in future immune-based therapies could ultimately benefit from findings from this work.
Not a fit: People with only short-lived (acute) infections or with non-viral conditions are unlikely to see direct benefit from this specific laboratory-focused research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could point to new ways to boost T cell energy and durability to improve treatments for chronic viral infections.
How similar studies have performed: Prior studies show that altering T cell metabolism can reverse exhaustion and improve antiviral responses, but targeting Pim1 specifically is a newer and less-tested approach.
Where this research is happening
CHICAGO, UNITED STATES
- NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY — CHICAGO, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: CUI, WEIGUO — NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: CUI, WEIGUO
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.