Understanding how Gfi1 and C/EBPα steer neutrophil formation in the blood
Official title: Erk1/2-c-Fos/Egr1/2 pathway in GFI1- and C/EBP -mediated granulopoiesis
Funded at University of Toledo · NIH-11359223 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A scientist team at the University of Toledo is studying why certain blood cells become neutrophils or monocytes, with the aim of finding ways to help people with low neutrophil counts.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Toledo NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Toledo, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2026 |
| Project end | August 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $561,300 |
| NIH project number | 1R15HL186347-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11359223 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Individuals with congenital neutropenia or other conditions affecting neutrophil development may benefit from advances arising from this research.
✕Less likely to help
People without neutropenia or hematopoietic disorders may see limited direct benefit.
What this research studies
This project looks at how specific blood cell fate decisions are controlled by transcription factors Gfi1 and C/EBPα and how the ERK1/2 pathway and its targets c-Fos and Egr1 influence neutrophil development. Researchers will use mouse models and bone marrow cells to see how altering Gfi1 and related signals changes the balance between neutrophils and monocytes. The study builds on preliminary data showing that ERK1/2 signaling and the 3'UTRs of c-Fos and Egr1 are involved in this process, with potential to uncover targets to boost neutrophil production in conditions like severe congenital neutropenia. Findings could guide future therapies to improve immune function in patients with neutropenia or related blood disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could lead to new approaches to increase neutrophil production in patients with neutropenia or impaired immune defense.
How similar studies have gone: Preliminary data indicate that modulating ERK1/2 signaling and c-Fos/Egr1 expression affects granulopoiesis, suggesting a promising, though still evolving, approach.
Where this research is happening
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University of Toledo
Toledo, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Dong, Fan — University of Toledo
- Study coordinator: Dong, Fan
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.