Targeting Runx3 to treat a serious immune disease in children
Official title: Targeting Runx3 as a Novel Treatment for Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis
Funded at University of Texas Hlth Ctr at Tyler · NIH-11440207 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A new approach aims to help kids with a dangerous immune condition by targeting Runx3 to calm overactive immune cells.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Ctr at Tyler NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tyler, United States) |
| Project start | July 20, 2026 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $223,500 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AI202573-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11440207 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates are children with or at risk for primary hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis or related immune dysregulation where Runx3-targeted strategies might be applicable.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without pHLH or without the specific Runx3 pathway involvement may not benefit from this approach.
What this research studies
This grant explores a novel treatment strategy for primary hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (pHLH), a life-threatening immune disorder that affects how CD8+ T cells respond to infections. Researchers will study Runx3, a key regulator in CD8+ T cells, to understand if blocking it can reduce the harmful cytokine storm seen in pHLH. The work uses laboratory models and possibly human-based studies to test whether targeting Runx3 could control disease activity with fewer toxic effects than current therapies. If successful, this could lead to new therapies that improve survival and quality of life for affected children and their families.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the approach could provide a safer, more effective treatment option for pHLH, potentially reducing severe inflammation and mortality.
How similar studies have gone: Preclinical data suggest Runx3 is critical for CD8+ T cell activation and IFNγ production, supporting potential benefit, though translation to humans is still early.
Where this research is happening
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University of Texas Hlth Ctr at Tyler
Tyler, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tang, Hua — University of Texas Hlth Ctr at Tyler
- Study coordinator: Tang, Hua
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.