Investigating how mitochondrial fatty acid synthesis affects T cell function and metabolism

Evaluating the role of Mecr and Mitochondrial Fatty Acid Synthesis in T cell Function and Metabolism

NIH-funded research Vanderbilt University · NIH-10995000

This study is looking at how certain fats made in our cells can affect the way a type of immune cell called CD4 T helper cells work, with the hope of finding new ways to treat diseases related to the immune system.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVanderbilt University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Nashville, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10995000 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores the role of mitochondrial fatty acid synthesis in the function and metabolism of CD4 T helper cells, which are crucial in regulating immune responses. By utilizing advanced techniques like CRISPR screens in models of inflammatory diseases, the study aims to identify key metabolic genes that influence T cell behavior. The goal is to understand how manipulating these metabolic pathways can potentially alter the differentiation of T cells, offering new strategies for treating immune-related diseases.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with autoimmune diseases or inflammatory conditions that involve dysregulated T cell function.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to T cell metabolism or those not experiencing inflammatory diseases may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to novel therapies for inflammatory diseases and cancer by targeting T cell metabolism.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in manipulating metabolic pathways to influence immune cell function, suggesting potential success for this approach.

Where this research is happening

Nashville, 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.
Conditions Autoimmune Diseases
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.