Mapping variations in natural killer cell receptors in diverse human populations
Official title: Defining Variation in the Natural Killer Cell Receptome in Human Populations
Funded at University of North Carolina Charlotte · NIH-11124572 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at the differences in certain immune cells that help fight infections and cancer by examining DNA from over 2,100 people of different backgrounds, including African Americans and Native Americans, to better understand how these differences might affect health and disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of North Carolina Charlotte NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlotte, United States) |
| Project start | August 18, 2022 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $67,790 |
| NIH project number | 3R21HG012386-03S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11124572 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals from diverse ancestral backgrounds, particularly those of African American and Native American descent.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not belong to the studied ancestral populations or those with conditions unrelated to immune response may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to create a detailed map of the variations in natural killer (NK) cell receptors, which play a crucial role in the immune response against infections and cancer. By analyzing DNA samples from over 2,100 individuals across various ancestries, including African Americans and Native Americans, the study will utilize advanced sequencing techniques and bioinformatics to uncover genetic differences. This comprehensive analysis will help understand how these variations affect immune function and disease susceptibility.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for enhancing immune responses in patients, particularly in the context of cancer and infectious diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in mapping genetic variations related to immune responses, indicating that this approach has potential for significant findings.
Where this research is happening
-
University of North Carolina Charlotte
Charlotte, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Augusto, Danillo G — University of North Carolina Charlotte
- Study coordinator: Augusto, Danillo G
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.