Investigating how mitochondrial fatty acid synthesis affects T cell function and metabolism
Official title: Evaluating the role of Mecr and Mitochondrial Fatty Acid Synthesis in T cell Function and Metabolism
Funded at Vanderbilt University · NIH-10995000 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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 type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $34,314 |
| NIH project number | 1F31DK139660-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10995000 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with autoimmune diseases or inflammatory conditions that involve dysregulated T cell function.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to T cell metabolism or those not experiencing inflammatory diseases may not benefit from this research.
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.
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 gone: 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
-
Vanderbilt University
Nashville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Steiner, Kaylee Kristal — Vanderbilt University
- Study coordinator: Steiner, Kaylee Kristal
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Understanding how peer norms around alcohol and HIV prevention affect adolescents and young adults in rural Uganda
This project studies how what young people think their peers do or approve of influences drinking and HIV prevention behaviors in rural Uganda, with the goal of improving health outcomes.
-
Cancer Pain Management for Asian American Breast Cancer Survivors with Depressive Symptoms
A technology-based program helps Asian American breast cancer survivors with depressive symptoms manage chronic pain more effectively from home using a web app and mobile tools.
-
Targeted gene silencing in the brain using siRNA helpers
This grant tests a new way to turn off specific brain genes in particular CNS cell types using siRNA conjugates to help understand brain biology and disease.
-
RSELVES Study: How older couples influence daily life and function with Alzheimer’s risk
A study to understand how daily routines and support between older adults and their partners relate to the development of Alzheimer’s-related functional decline.
-
Molecular mechanisms of coat assembly and regulation in membrane trafficking
A research project seeks to understand how cellular coats organize and regulate the delivery of membrane-bound cargo, with a focus on proteins related to neurological diseases.
-
Synaptic nanostructure in neurodevelopmental disorders
This project aims to map the tiny architecture of brain synapses in native cells to understand how connections form and change in neurodevelopmental disorders.
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.