Understanding how a missing protein called TET affects immune cells and inflammation
Investigating the role of TET deficiency in promoting T cell expansion and inflammation
This research explores how a missing protein called TET can cause immune cells to grow too much and lead to inflammation, which is important for understanding autoimmune diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | La Jolla Institute for Immunology NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11095825 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies rely on DNA methylation, a process that helps cells know what they are supposed to do, and TET enzymes are key players in this process. When TET proteins are missing, the patterns of DNA methylation change, similar to what is seen in conditions like cancer and aging. This project uses special mouse models to understand how missing TET in immune cells leads to changes in how these cells develop. We have observed that a lack of TET can cause certain immune cells, specifically T cells, to multiply excessively and become highly inflammatory, which is a significant factor in autoimmune conditions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research aims to understand mechanisms relevant to patients experiencing autoimmune diseases with excessive T cell activity and inflammation.
Not a fit: Patients whose autoimmune conditions are not driven by TET deficiency or excessive T cell expansion may not directly benefit from this specific line of research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this foundational research could lead to new strategies for controlling immune cell overactivity and inflammation in patients with autoimmune diseases.
How similar studies have performed: This research builds upon the team's previous findings regarding TET deficiency and its effects on immune cells, showing that deletion of TET genes skews cell lineage commitment.
Where this research is happening
La Jolla, United States
- La Jolla Institute for Immunology — La Jolla, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rao, Anjana — La Jolla Institute for Immunology
- Study coordinator: Rao, Anjana
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.