How the CD82 protein controls blood stem cell behavior
Functional Role of Tetraspanin CD82 in Hematopoietic Stem Cell Interactions
Researchers want to see if changing the CD82 protein can help blood stem cells stay active longer to improve recovery after bleeding, infection, radiation, or bone marrow transplant.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of New Mexico Health Scis Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Albuquerque, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11314577 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project looks at a protein called CD82 that sits on blood stem cells and helps them stick to their surroundings in the bone marrow. Scientists will study how CD82 controls whether hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells remain quiet or become active after stresses like bleeding, infection, radiation, or chemotherapy. The team will use laboratory experiments on cells and model systems to map the signals and interactions that link the bone marrow environment to stem cell behavior. Their goal is to identify ways to temporarily extend stem cell activation to improve recovery and transplant outcomes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People who have received or are likely to need bone marrow transplants, have had chemotherapy or radiation that suppresses the marrow, or who experience severe bleeding or bone marrow failure could be the eventual candidates for related clinical efforts.
Not a fit: Patients without blood or bone marrow disorders or those with conditions unrelated to hematopoiesis are unlikely to see direct benefit from this specific line of research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to boost blood stem cell activity and speed recovery after marrow injury or transplantation.
How similar studies have performed: Prior lab studies of tetraspanins and related membrane proteins have shown they can change stem cell interactions and behavior, but translating these findings into patient treatments remains unproven.
Where this research is happening
Albuquerque, United States
- University of New Mexico Health Scis Ctr — Albuquerque, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gillette, Jennifer — University of New Mexico Health Scis Ctr
- Study coordinator: Gillette, Jennifer
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.