Understanding how human immune cells develop from stem cells
Official title: Lineage tracing origins of human innate lymphoid cells from hematopoietic precursors
Funded at Columbia University Health Sciences · NIH-11032185 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how special immune cells called natural killer (NK) cells develop from stem cells in our bodies, which could help us find better treatments for diseases where the immune system isn't working properly.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Columbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | November 19, 2024 |
| Project end | October 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $79,783 |
| NIH project number | 1R03AI187610-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11032185 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who may have conditions related to immune dysfunction or are interested in the biology of immune cells.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with stable immune function and no history of viral infections or immune disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the development of natural killer (NK) cells, which are essential for fighting viral infections, from stem cells in humans. By using a technique called genetic barcoding, researchers will track how these immune cells differentiate from their precursors. The study aims to uncover the complex processes that guide stem cells to become NK cells, including the role of myeloid progenitors. Patients may benefit from insights gained into NK cell development, which could lead to improved treatments for diseases related to immune dysfunction.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of immune cell development, potentially leading to better therapies for viral infections and immune-related diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has successfully utilized genetic tracing methods to study cell differentiation, indicating that this approach has potential for yielding valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Columbia University Health Sciences
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mace, Emily Margaret — Columbia University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Mace, Emily Margaret
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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.