Understanding how certain immune cells develop in the thymus
Official title: γδTCR-dependent and independent differentiation of innate lymphoid cells
Funded at Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation · NIH-10890867 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain immune cells, called innate lymphoid cells, develop in the thymus and how they help our body respond to different situations, which could help us understand our immune system better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Oklahoma City, United States) |
| Project start | July 20, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $682,186 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI178947-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10890867 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals with immune system disorders or those interested in understanding their immune health.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with fully functional immune systems and no underlying immune conditions may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the differentiation of innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) in the thymus, which are crucial for immune responses. It aims to understand how these cells develop from T cell precursors and their functions in the body. By utilizing advanced techniques like single-cell RNA sequencing, the study will explore the presence of specific markers that indicate the origin of these cells. The findings could provide insights into how the immune system responds to various environmental cues.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for enhancing immune responses in patients, particularly those with immune deficiencies or allergies.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding immune cell differentiation, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation
Oklahoma City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sun, Xiao-Hong — Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation
- Study coordinator: Sun, Xiao-Hong
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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.