Understanding how a cell's internal clock controls its life and death in autoimmune diseases
The metabolic clock as a regulator of cell fate decision
This work explores how the internal timing of immune cells, called B cells, influences their survival or death, which is important for understanding autoimmune conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ohio State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Columbus, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11171732 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies constantly adapt to changes, and a key part of this is how cells decide to grow, stay active, or die. This project focuses on B cells, a type of immune cell, and how their internal 'metabolic clock' helps them make these crucial decisions. We know that B cells receive signals that can either activate them to fight infections or lead them to self-destruct if they are faulty. This research aims to uncover the exact mechanisms by which these signals and the cell's internal timing system control B cell fate, particularly in the context of autoimmune diseases where these decisions go wrong.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is not directly recruiting patients but aims to benefit individuals living with autoimmune diseases in the future by improving our understanding of their condition.
Not a fit: Patients not affected by autoimmune diseases or conditions related to B cell dysfunction may not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to target faulty B cells in autoimmune diseases, potentially offering new treatments.
How similar studies have performed: Previous work by this team has already shown that B cell fate is regulated by distinct signals, providing a strong foundation for this new direction.
Where this research is happening
Columbus, UNITED STATES
- Ohio State University — Columbus, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Akkaya, Munir — Ohio State University
- Study coordinator: Akkaya, Munir
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.