Understanding how GABA affects immune responses in autoimmune diseases
Official title: Decipher and target GABA metabolism and GABA receptor-mediated signaling in autoimmune diseases
Funded at Research Inst Nationwide Children's Hosp · NIH-11012895 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a substance called GABA affects inflammation caused by immune cells, with the hope of finding new treatments for autoimmune diseases that could help patients feel better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Research Inst Nationwide Children's Hosp NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Columbus, United States) |
| Project start | February 10, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $484,348 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI175004-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11012895 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals, particularly children under 11 years old, suffering from autoimmune diseases.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with autoimmune diseases not involving T cell-mediated inflammation may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in regulating inflammation caused by T cells, which are crucial for immune responses. By analyzing how GABA metabolism and receptor signaling influence T cell behavior, the study aims to identify potential therapeutic strategies for autoimmune diseases. The approach includes using animal models to explore the effects of manipulating GABA levels and its receptors on T cell activity and inflammation. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new treatments targeting GABA pathways.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative therapies that better manage autoimmune diseases by targeting GABA metabolism.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific targeting of GABA in autoimmune diseases is a novel approach, related research has shown promising results in understanding metabolic influences on immune responses.
Where this research is happening
-
Research Inst Nationwide Children's Hosp
Columbus, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wang, Ruoning — Research Inst Nationwide Children's Hosp
- Study coordinator: Wang, Ruoning
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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.