NIH-funded research R21 grant

Understanding how a specific protein affects immune cells in the colon

Official title: Define the role of REV-ERB in colonic RORgt+ regulatory T cells

Funded at Salk Institute for Biological Studies · NIH-10886106 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how a protein called REV-ERB affects a type of immune cell that helps keep our immune system balanced and prevents autoimmune diseases, especially in the colon, which could lead to new ways to treat immune-related conditions.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionSalk Institute for Biological Studies
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (La Jolla, UNITED STATES)
Project startJuly 11, 2023
Project endJune 30, 2025
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$237,500
NIH project number5R21AI178938-02
Project IDNIH-10886106 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with autoimmune diseases or conditions characterized by immune dysregulation.

Less likely to help

Patients with non-autoimmune conditions or those not affected by immune system imbalances may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of a protein called REV-ERB in a special type of immune cell known as RORgt+ regulatory T cells, which are important for maintaining immune balance and preventing autoimmune diseases. The study focuses on how these cells function in the colon and how REV-ERB influences their ability to suppress inflammation. By using advanced techniques like RNA sequencing and specific assays, researchers aim to uncover the mechanisms behind the regulation of these immune cells. This could lead to new insights into treating conditions related to immune dysfunction.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies for autoimmune diseases by enhancing the function of regulatory T cells.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding immune cell regulation, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

  • Salk Institute for Biological Studies
    La Jolla, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Zheng, Ye — Salk Institute for Biological Studies
  • Study coordinator: Zheng, Ye

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About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.