Investigating how RORα influences TH17 cell development and inflammation
Official title: Ligand and transcriptional regulation of the nuclear receptor RORa on TH17 cell development and inflammation
Funded at University of Florida · NIH-11059204 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called RORα helps shape certain immune cells that can cause inflammation, and by tweaking this protein with special molecules, researchers hope to find new ways to treat autoimmune diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Gainesville, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $618,072 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK136298-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11059204 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from autoimmune diseases characterized by chronic inflammation, such as colitis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with acute inflammatory conditions or those not affected by autoimmune diseases may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of RORα, a transcription factor, in the development of TH17 cells, which are involved in immune responses and inflammation. The study aims to explore how RORα regulates gene expression in these cells and how this regulation can affect chronic inflammatory conditions. By using synthetic small molecules to manipulate RORα activity, researchers hope to uncover the mechanisms that lead to either homeostasis or disease. This could provide insights into potential therapeutic targets for autoimmune diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for chronic inflammatory diseases by targeting RORα pathways.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of nuclear receptors in immune regulation, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Florida
Gainesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Solt, Laura a — University of Florida
- Study coordinator: Solt, Laura a
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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.