Neutrophils use DNA to trap and kill pathogens
Official title: Neutrophil Extracellular Traps are Free-Radical Generating DNAzymes
Funded at Stanford University · NIH-11051171 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a type of immune cell called neutrophils helps fight off infections by using a special process to trap and kill germs, and it aims to understand how certain DNA structures can boost this process, which could lead to new treatments for autoimmune diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Stanford University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stanford, United States) |
| Project start | March 6, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $187,210 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI178026-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11051171 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with autoimmune diseases or conditions that involve dysregulated immune responses.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-autoimmune conditions or those not affected by immune system dysfunction may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how neutrophils, a type of immune cell, utilize a process called NETosis to trap and eliminate invading pathogens. When stimulated by pathogens, neutrophils release DNA fibers that not only capture these harmful cells but also contain proteins and peptides that help kill them through oxidative stress. The study focuses on understanding the role of specific DNA structures, known as G-quadruplexes, in generating free radicals that enhance the neutrophils' bactericidal activity. By exploring these mechanisms, the research aims to uncover new insights into immune responses and potential therapeutic targets for autoimmune diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for autoimmune diseases by enhancing our understanding of immune cell functions.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in understanding immune cell mechanisms, but this specific approach focusing on G-quadruplexes is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Stanford University
Stanford, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yang, Samuel — Stanford University
- Study coordinator: Yang, Samuel
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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.