How RNA-binding proteins control macrophage (immune cell) activation
Exploring the role of RNA binding proteins in post-transcriptional regulation of macrophage activation
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER · NIH-11176795
This project looks at how proteins that bind RNA change macrophage behavior to help inform treatments for infection, inflammation, and autoimmune conditions.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (NASHVILLE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11176795 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
From a patient's point of view, researchers in this project are studying how RNA-binding proteins help macrophages (a type of immune cell) turn genes on or off after detecting infection or tissue damage. They will use cell models and molecular lab techniques to identify which RNA-binding proteins matter and how phosphorylation and other modifications change their function. The team will track changes in alternative splicing, polyadenylation, RNA editing, and nuclear organization that control inflammatory gene expression. The goal is to reveal mechanisms that could point to new drug targets to calm harmful inflammation or boost weak immune responses.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with recurrent infections, chronic inflammatory conditions, or autoimmune diseases would be most likely to benefit from therapies that arise from this research.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment or those with conditions unrelated to immune cell dysfunction are unlikely to see direct benefits from this basic laboratory research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could identify new molecular targets that lead to therapies for infections, chronic inflammation, or autoimmune diseases.
How similar studies have performed: Previous basic-science studies have shown RNA-binding proteins influence immune responses, but translating these findings into safe human therapies is still early and largely unproven.
Where this research is happening
NASHVILLE, UNITED STATES
- VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER — NASHVILLE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: PATRICK, KRISTIN LEIGH — VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER
- Study coordinator: PATRICK, KRISTIN LEIGH
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.