Understanding how certain immune cells develop and function in autoimmune diseases
Official title: Cis-regulatory mechanisms governing RORgt expression in type 3 lymphocytes
Funded at Duke University · NIH-11010344 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain genes help control immune cells that are important for fighting off illnesses, and it aims to find out how problems with these cells might lead to autoimmune diseases like inflammatory bowel disease and multiple sclerosis, which could eventually help develop new treatments for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $48,974 |
| NIH project number | 5F31AI181082-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11010344 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with autoimmune diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease, Crohn's disease, or multiple sclerosis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-autoimmune conditions or those not affected by the specific diseases being studied may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms that control the expression of a key gene involved in the development of type 3 lymphocytes, which play a vital role in the immune response. By using advanced techniques like CRISPR and STARR-seq, the researchers aim to identify specific regulatory elements that influence the behavior of these immune cells. This could help clarify how dysregulation of these cells contributes to autoimmune diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease and multiple sclerosis. Patients may benefit from insights gained that could lead to new therapeutic strategies targeting these immune pathways.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for autoimmune diseases by targeting the regulatory mechanisms of immune cell development.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in understanding immune cell regulation, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Duke University
Durham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mehta, Naren U — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Mehta, Naren U
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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.