Protein clusters and membrane patches in T cells
Biophysical and functional coupling of protein condensates to ordered lipid domains in T-cells
This work looks at how protein clusters and special membrane patches in T cells help these immune cells turn on and fight infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11241109 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
From a patient's perspective, researchers are looking at how a protein called LAT forms clusters inside T cells and how those clusters connect to cholesterol-rich membrane patches known as lipid rafts. They will use lab-grown cells, advanced imaging, and biophysical measurements to see how changing LAT phosphorylation or membrane makeup alters these structures. By manipulating the building blocks of the clusters and membranes, scientists will observe how those changes affect T cell signaling and activation. Although the experiments are done in the lab, the results could point to targets for therapies that change how T cells respond.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People willing to donate blood or tissue samples for laboratory study of T cells, particularly those with T-cell–related immune conditions, would be the most relevant participants.
Not a fit: Patients needing immediate new treatments or whose conditions do not involve T cell function are unlikely to benefit directly from this basic laboratory research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to new ways to boost or dampen T cell activity for infections, autoimmune diseases, or cancer.
How similar studies have performed: Prior lab studies show LAT clustering and lipid rafts affect T-cell signaling, but the idea that condensates and membrane domains are functionally coupled is newer and less well tested.
Where this research is happening
Charlottesville, United States
- University of Virginia — Charlottesville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Levental, Ilya — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Levental, Ilya
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 below.