Investigating how a specific enzyme affects immune T cells that respond to lipids.

Role of secreted phospholipase A2 in the activation of human CD1-restricted T cells

NIH-funded research Columbia University Health Sciences · NIH-10749024

This study is looking at how a specific enzyme called sPLA2 helps activate immune cells that fight off certain fats in the body, especially in people with ongoing conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and asthma, to find new ways to improve treatments.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionColumbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-10749024 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores the role of secreted phospholipase A2 (sPLA2) in activating T cells that recognize lipid antigens presented by CD1 proteins. The study aims to understand how sPLA2 influences the availability of these lipid antigens, particularly in the context of chronic inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and asthma. By examining the interactions between sPLA2 and antigen-presenting cells, the researchers hope to uncover mechanisms that regulate T cell activation in vivo, which could lead to new therapeutic strategies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with chronic inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, asthma, or atherosclerosis.

Not a fit: Patients with acute inflammatory conditions or those not affected by chronic inflammation may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for chronic inflammatory diseases by targeting the mechanisms of T cell activation.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding T cell activation mechanisms, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

New York, United States

Researchers

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 below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.