Understanding how certain cholesterol derivatives affect immune cell movement to lymph nodes
Official title: Determining the role of oxysterols in lymphocyte homing to lymph nodes in homeostasis and inflammation
Funded at University of California, San Francisco · NIH-11045011 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a substance called 25-hydroxycholesterol helps guide immune cells to the lymph nodes, which is important for fighting off infections and diseases, and it could lead to new ways to improve treatments for conditions like cancer and autoimmune disorders.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2023 |
| Project end | February 28, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $53,974 |
| NIH project number | 5F30AI176727-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11045011 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions that involve immune system dysregulation, such as autoimmune diseases or cancer.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with stable, non-inflammatory conditions or those not affected by immune system disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of oxysterols, specifically 25-hydroxycholesterol, in guiding immune cells, such as B and T lymphocytes, to lymph nodes during both normal and inflammatory conditions. By using advanced imaging techniques like 2-photon microscopy, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms that facilitate the entry of these immune cells into lymph nodes, which is crucial for initiating a proper immune response. The research focuses on understanding the signals and interactions that occur at specialized blood vessels known as high endothelial venules, which play a key role in this process. Insights gained from this research could lead to new strategies for manipulating immune responses in diseases like cancer and autoimmune disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of immune cell behavior, potentially leading to improved treatments for conditions like cancer and autoimmune diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding immune cell trafficking, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Francisco
San Francisco, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chen, Kevin Y — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Chen, Kevin Y
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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.