How T cell activation is regulated by protein interactions and membrane structures
Official title: Mutual regulation between membrane rafts and protein condensates in T cell activation
Funded at University of Virginia · NIH-11094681 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain proteins help activate T cells, which are important for fighting infections and cancer, to better understand how they work and how this knowledge could help people with autoimmune diseases and immune system issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $38,183 |
| NIH project number | 5F31AI181453-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11094681 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with autoimmune diseases or conditions affecting T cell function.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-autoimmune conditions or those not experiencing T cell-related issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms behind T cell activation, which is crucial for the immune response against infections and cancer. It focuses on the interactions between specific proteins and membrane structures that help regulate T cell signaling. By studying how these proteins form clusters and how they interact with lipid rafts in the cell membrane, the research aims to uncover new insights into T cell function and regulation. This could lead to a better understanding of autoimmune diseases and immunodeficiency disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating autoimmune diseases and enhancing immune responses in patients.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding T cell signaling and its implications for immune disorders, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Virginia
Charlottesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chan, Sze Ham — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Chan, Sze Ham
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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.