How the Hhex protein controls early T cell development
Homeobox protein Hhex in early T cell development
['FUNDING_R21'] · CALIFORNIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY · NIH-11258549
This project looks at how the Hhex protein affects the timing and steps of early T cell formation, which could matter for people with blood or immune disorders.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R21'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | CALIFORNIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (PASADENA, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11258549 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
From a patient's perspective, the researchers are studying early immune cells to see how Hhex influences whether they become T cells. They will manipulate Hhex levels and watch changes in gene activity and chromatin accessibility, using tools such as ATAC-seq and genetic perturbations in experimental models. The team will pay special attention to how Hhex interacts with the T-lineage regulator Bcl11b and whether Hhex creates a transient progenitor-like state before full T cell commitment. Findings are intended to explain why Hhex can both support T-lineage potential yet be silenced in mature T cells.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with inherited or acquired disorders of T-cell development, certain immunodeficiencies, or hematologic cancers would be most relevant for future clinical follow-up based on this research.
Not a fit: Patients with health problems unrelated to blood or immune system function are unlikely to see direct benefits from this laboratory-focused work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could reveal basic mechanisms that guide T cell formation and point to new strategies for treating immune deficiencies or blood cancers.
How similar studies have performed: Prior studies have shown Hhex is important for blood stem cell behavior and B cell development, but applying those findings to the control of T-cell commitment and Bcl11b timing is a novel direction.
Where this research is happening
PASADENA, UNITED STATES
- CALIFORNIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY — PASADENA, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: ROTHENBERG, ELLEN V. — CALIFORNIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY
- Study coordinator: ROTHENBERG, ELLEN V.
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.