How two versions of the TOX protein shape immune cells
Characterization of TOX isoform-specific roles in T cell and ILC development
Researchers are figuring out how two versions of the TOX protein change the development and behavior of T cells and innate lymphoid cells, which affect autoimmune disease, infection responses, and cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Cedars-Sinai Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11291299 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project will determine how the TOX gene produces two protein forms and how each form influences developing T cells and innate lymphoid cells from the bone marrow and thymus. Scientists will use laboratory methods such as ATAC‑seq and other molecular and cell biology tools to map TOX binding and effects on gene activity. Experiments will use cell samples and established laboratory models to follow immune cell specification and function. Results aim to explain whether different TOX forms promote healthy immunity or contribute to immune disorders.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with autoimmune diseases, chronic viral infections, or cancers that involve T cells or innate lymphoid cells are most likely to benefit from future advances based on this work.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to immune cell function, such as isolated orthopedic injuries or metabolic disorders with no immune component, are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal new molecular targets for therapies that correct harmful immune responses in autoimmunity, chronic infections, or cancer.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies established TOX as important for T cell and ILC development and for immune dysfunction in disease, but studying the specific TOX isoforms is a newer and exploratory direction.
Where this research is happening
Los Angeles, United States
- Cedars-Sinai Medical Center — Los Angeles, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kaye, Jonathan G — Cedars-Sinai Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Kaye, Jonathan G
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.