Investigating the role of specific receptors on immune cells in regulating autoimmune responses
Official title: The role of Ly49 family of receptors on CD8 T cells
Funded at Washington University · NIH-11044438 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain receptors in our immune system affect a type of cell that helps keep our immune responses in check, which could help us find new ways to treat autoimmune diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | January 23, 2025 |
| Project end | December 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $649,053 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AI182141-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11044438 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with autoimmune diseases, particularly those who may benefit from enhanced immune regulation.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-autoimmune conditions or those who do not have a significant immune dysregulation may not receive benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how a family of receptors, known as Ly49, affects the function of CD8 T regulatory cells, which play a crucial role in controlling immune responses. By studying these receptors in mice and their human counterparts, the research aims to uncover how they contribute to the regulation of autoimmune diseases. The approach involves immunization to expand specific T cell populations and examining the roles of various signaling molecules and transcription factors in their function. This could lead to new insights into how the immune system can be manipulated to treat autoimmune conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that enhance the body's ability to regulate immune responses, potentially improving outcomes for patients with autoimmune diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding immune regulation through similar receptor studies, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Saligrama, Naresha — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Saligrama, Naresha
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.