How precise protein cutting controls the body's first-line immune response
Defining the role of site-specific proteolysis in innate defense signaling
Researchers will map how small, targeted cuts to proteins help cells turn on and turn off early immune defenses to protect people from infections and tissue damage.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston University Medical Campus NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11326265 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
My cells defend against germs by activating and calming early immune pathways, and tiny, site-specific cuts to proteins can control those switches. The lab will use a sensitive protein N‑terminal labeling technique in human cell models to detect where proteins are cut during innate immune responses. They will focus on the N‑end rule pathway to learn how these cuts change protein stability and alter antiviral and inflammatory signaling. This is laboratory-based work at Boston University aimed at identifying molecular changes that could guide future therapies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This project does not enroll patients and instead uses human cell models and laboratory samples, so there are no patient eligibility requirements.
Not a fit: People looking for immediate clinical treatment are unlikely to benefit directly because this is basic laboratory research rather than a clinical trial.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal new molecular targets to reduce harmful inflammation or boost antiviral defenses and guide development of future treatments.
How similar studies have performed: Prior studies of other post-translational modifications have led to important biological insights and drug targets, but unbiased mapping of site-specific proteolysis in innate immune signaling is a newer and less-tested approach.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Boston University Medical Campus — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Saeed, Mohsan — Boston University Medical Campus
- Study coordinator: Saeed, Mohsan
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.