Manipulating signaling pathways in immune cells

Synthetic Biology and Optogenetics Core

NIH-funded research University of Illinois at Chicago · NIH-10895333

This study is all about creating special tools to better understand how immune cells called macrophages work during lung inflammation, which can help us learn how to improve treatments for related conditions.

Quick facts

Grant typeP01 program project
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Illinois at Chicago NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chicago, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10895333 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing advanced tools to manipulate and study specific signaling pathways in immune cells, particularly macrophages, which play a crucial role in lung inflammation and injury. By using engineered reagents, the project aims to gain insights into how these cells adapt and respond during inflammatory processes. The research involves creating customized molecular tools and applying them in mouse models to observe the effects on macrophage behavior and function. This approach allows for precise control over protein interactions and activities in living cells, enhancing our understanding of immune responses.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from lung conditions characterized by inflammation, such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Not a fit: Patients with non-inflammatory lung conditions or those not affected by macrophage-related processes may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating lung inflammation and related diseases.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results using similar optogenetic and synthetic biology approaches to manipulate cellular signaling pathways, indicating potential for success in this area.

Where this research is happening

Chicago, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 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.