NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

How swelling affects immune cell function through ion channels

Official title: Immune cell regulation by swelling-activated ion channels

Funded at University of Chicago · NIH-10941896 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how certain channels in immune cells called T lymphocytes help them grow and work properly, especially by managing calcium signals, which could lead to new ways to improve immune responses for people with immune-related conditions.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Chicago
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chicago, United States)
Project startSeptember 1, 2024
Project endJune 30, 2029
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$410,000
NIH project number1R35GM155189-01
Project IDNIH-10941896 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions that involve immune dysfunction or those interested in the biological mechanisms of immune responses.

Less likely to help

Patients with non-immune related conditions or those who do not have any immune system involvement may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of swelling-activated ion channels in T lymphocytes, which are crucial immune cells. The team will explore how these channels contribute to the maturation and function of T cells, particularly focusing on their ability to transport calcium signals necessary for T cell development. By employing advanced techniques from various scientific fields, including genomics and electrophysiology, the researchers aim to uncover the complex interactions that regulate immune responses. This work could lead to a better understanding of immune cell behavior and potential therapeutic targets.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of immune cell regulation, potentially leading to new treatments for immune-related diseases.

How similar studies have gone: While the specific focus on swelling-activated ion channels in immune cells is relatively novel, there has been success in related research exploring ion channels in other cell types.

Where this research is happening

  • University of Chicago
    Chicago, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Concepcion Gonzalez, Axel Rolando — University of Chicago
  • Study coordinator: Concepcion Gonzalez, Axel Rolando

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.