How regulatory T cells keep the immune system in balance

Translational Regulation of T Regulatory Cells

NIH-funded research New York University School of Medicine · NIH-11261239

This project explores how a special protein complex helps regulatory T cells form and work, which could matter for people with autoimmune diseases.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNew York University School of Medicine NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-11261239 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

Researchers are studying a newly discovered protein complex called DAP5/eIF3d that controls how regulatory T cells (Tregs) make proteins. They will examine different Treg types (thymic, peripheral, and induced), chemical tags on their messenger RNA called m6A, and how these features affect Treg stability and function. The team will use lab-grown cells, molecular techniques, and studies of animal models and human-derived samples to trace how this protein-making process controls Treg behavior. The aim is to map the molecular steps that allow Tregs to develop and prevent inappropriate immune attacks on the body.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: People with autoimmune diseases who are willing to donate blood or tissue samples now or consider joining future Treg-targeted clinical trials are the most relevant candidates.

Not a fit: Patients whose conditions are not driven by immune overactivity or who need immediate clinical treatments are unlikely to benefit directly from this laboratory-focused project.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to new ways to boost or stabilize regulatory T cells and lead to therapies for autoimmune diseases.

How similar studies have performed: Previous laboratory work by these investigators identified the DAP5/eIF3d translation mechanism unique to Tregs, but translating this finding into therapies is new and unproven clinically.

Where this research is happening

New York, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Autoimmune Diseases
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.