Understanding Cell Signals in Inflammatory Diseases like Lupus
A phospho-tyrosine-based signaling module controlling TLR-mediated inflammatory disease.
This project explores how specific cell signals contribute to inflammatory conditions such as lupus, aiming to discover new ways to help patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Utah State Higher Education System--University of Utah NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Salt Lake City, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11117052 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies have natural defenses, but sometimes these defenses, known as the TLR pathway, can become overactive and cause inflammatory diseases like lupus. We are exploring the specific ways certain proteins, like LYN and IRF5, interact and send signals that either protect us or lead to inflammation. By understanding these detailed molecular steps, including how chemical tags called tyrosine phosphorylation control these proteins, we aim to uncover why the immune system sometimes attacks healthy tissues. This knowledge could help us find new targets for treatments that restore balance to the immune system.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is not directly recruiting patients but aims to benefit those living with inflammatory diseases, particularly systemic lupus erythematosus.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate new treatments may not directly benefit from this early-stage laboratory research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal new targets for medications that could help control inflammation in diseases like lupus.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific molecular mechanisms are still being uncovered, the proteins involved, like LYN and IRF5, are known to play critical roles in inflammatory diseases, and related mouse models have confirmed their importance.
Where this research is happening
Salt Lake City, United States
- Utah State Higher Education System--University of Utah — Salt Lake City, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Haecker, Hans — Utah State Higher Education System--University of Utah
- Study coordinator: Haecker, Hans
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.