Understanding how a specific protein helps the body respond to bacterial infections

Human NLRP11 function in non-canonical inflammasome activation by bacterial pathogen LPS

NIH-funded research Massachusetts General Hospital · NIH-11032877

This study is looking at a protein called NLRP11 that helps your immune system fight off bacterial infections, and it aims to understand how it works with certain bacteria to activate a process that can help protect your body, which could lead to better treatments for infections.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMassachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-11032877 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of NLRP11, a protein that helps the immune system recognize and respond to bacterial infections, specifically focusing on how it interacts with lipopolysaccharides (LPS) from gram-negative bacteria. The study aims to uncover the mechanisms by which NLRP11 activates the CASP4 inflammasome, a critical component in triggering cell death in response to bacterial threats. By examining how NLRP11 functions in human immune cells, the research seeks to provide insights into the body's defense mechanisms against infections. Patients may benefit from a better understanding of how their immune systems respond to bacterial pathogens.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions related to bacterial infections or those who may have immune response deficiencies.

Not a fit: Patients with viral infections or non-infectious diseases may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for bacterial infections by enhancing our understanding of immune responses.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in understanding immune responses to bacterial infections, making this approach promising.

Where this research is happening

Boston, United States

Researchers

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 below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.