NIH-funded research R01 grant

Improving transplant survival by targeting T cell behavior

Official title: Modulation of chromatin dynamics to promote transplant survival

Funded at Methodist Hospital Research Institute · NIH-10995265 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how changing the way T cells are structured can help make organ transplants work better, focusing on a protein called BRD4, which could lead to new treatments that help transplanted organs last longer and reduce the chances of rejection.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMethodist Hospital Research Institute
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Houston, United States)
Project startDecember 6, 2023
Project endOctober 31, 2028
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$609,980
NIH project number5R01AI179616-02
Project IDNIH-10995265 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are undergoing or are candidates for organ transplantation.

Less likely to help

Patients who are not candidates for organ transplantation or those with conditions that preclude successful transplant procedures may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates how modifying the chromatin structure in T cells can enhance the success of organ transplants. By focusing on a protein called BRD4, the study aims to understand how it influences T cell behavior and promotes tolerance to transplanted organs. The researchers will use advanced techniques to analyze the chromatin dynamics in T cells and explore how these changes can lead to better transplant outcomes. Patients may benefit from new therapies that improve the longevity of transplanted organs and reduce the risk of rejection.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing organ rejection and enhancing transplant survival rates.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in manipulating T cell behavior to improve transplant outcomes, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

  • Methodist Hospital Research Institute
    Houston, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Li, Xian Chang — Methodist Hospital Research Institute
  • Study coordinator: Li, Xian Chang

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.