Understanding how certain immune cells develop and function in autoimmune diseases

Cis-regulatory mechanisms governing RORgt expression in type 3 lymphocytes

NIH-funded research Duke University · NIH-11010344

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 typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionDuke University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Durham, United States)
Project IDNIH-11010344 on NIH RePORTER

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.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with autoimmune diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease, Crohn's disease, or multiple sclerosis.

Not a fit: Patients with non-autoimmune conditions or those not affected by the specific diseases being studied may not receive any benefit from this research.

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 performed: Other research has shown promise in understanding immune cell regulation, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Durham, 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.
Conditions Autoimmune Diseasesautoimmune disorderautoimmunity disease
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.