Investigating how small molecules can control the immune system's protein degradation process

Monitoring and Manipulating the Activity of the Immunoproteasome with Small Molecules

NIH-funded research University of California-Irvine · NIH-10887344

This study is looking at a special enzyme in immune cells to see how changing its activity can help us understand and improve treatments for autoimmune diseases, which could benefit patients like you.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California-Irvine NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Irvine, United States)
Project IDNIH-10887344 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on the immunoproteasome, a specialized enzyme complex that degrades proteins in immune cells. By using small molecules to monitor and manipulate the activity of the immunoproteasome, the researchers aim to understand how this process affects the immune response, particularly in the context of autoimmune diseases. The study explores how altering the production of MHC-I compatible peptides can influence T-cell activation, which is crucial for both fighting infections and preventing autoimmune reactions. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new treatments for autoimmune conditions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with autoimmune diseases who may benefit from improved immune regulation.

Not a fit: Patients with non-autoimmune conditions or those not experiencing immune system dysregulation may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to novel therapies that better regulate immune responses in patients with autoimmune diseases.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in manipulating the immunoproteasome for therapeutic purposes, indicating that this approach could be a viable avenue for treatment.

Where this research is happening

Irvine, 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 Diseasesautoimmune disorderautoimmunity disease
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.