Understanding how cells decide their fate based on environmental signals

Epigenesis of Cell Fate Potential

NIH-funded research University of Chicago · NIH-11132266

This study is looking at how T cells, a type of immune cell, make decisions about their roles in the body based on different signals they receive, and it aims to understand how changes in the way DNA is organized can affect these decisions.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Chicago NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chicago, United States)
Project IDNIH-11132266 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how cells, particularly T cells, respond to various environmental and developmental cues to determine their fate. By focusing on the regulation of chromatin, which is the structure that organizes DNA, the study aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms that guide these cellular decisions. The researchers will explore how chromatin remodeling complexes, which modify DNA accessibility, influence gene activity and cellular identity during T cell development. This work could provide insights into the fundamental processes that govern cell function and adaptation.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with autoimmune conditions or those interested in understanding T cell biology.

Not a fit: Patients with non-autoimmune conditions or those not interested in cellular biology may not receive direct benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for manipulating T cell responses in autoimmune diseases and other conditions.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding cellular decision-making processes, particularly in T cells, indicating that this approach has potential for significant insights.

Where this research is happening

Chicago, 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.