How the protein WDFY4 helps regulatory T cells develop
Role of WDFY4 in Treg development
Researchers are looking at whether the protein WDFY4 helps regulatory T cells learn to tolerate the body's own tissues, which could affect autoimmune disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11325462 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project looks at how a protein called WDFY4 helps certain immune-supporting cells (cDC1 dendritic cells) show bits of the body's own tissues to regulatory T cells (Tregs) so those Tregs can develop and prevent autoimmune attacks. The team will use gene-editing (CRISPR), cell-based assays, and animal models to remove or alter WDFY4 and compare which self-peptides are presented on MHC class I and II molecules in different dendritic cells. They will also analyze T cell receptor patterns in Tregs to find self-reactive receptors that depend on WDFY4 and search for proteins that interact with WDFY4 to reveal how the process works. Although this is primarily lab and preclinical work at Washington University, the findings could point to new targets for preventing or treating autoimmune diseases in the future.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with autoimmune conditions are the population most likely to benefit and could be candidates for future clinical studies based on these findings, though this grant does not currently enroll patients.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment or symptom relief are unlikely to benefit because this is basic laboratory and preclinical research rather than a clinical therapy.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could uncover new targets to strengthen regulatory T cells and reduce harmful autoimmune reactions.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research shows dendritic cells influence Treg development, but the specific WDFY4-dependent pathway is a novel finding that has not yet been tested in clinical trials.
Where this research is happening
Saint Louis, United States
- Washington University — Saint Louis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Murphy, Kenneth M — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Murphy, Kenneth M
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.