Understanding how human natural killer cells fight viral infections
Official title: Transcriptional Regulation of human natural killer cell function
Funded at University of California Los Angeles · NIH-11132472 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how special immune cells called natural killer (NK) cells help fight off viral infections, especially in newborns and people with AIDS, to find ways to boost their effectiveness and improve treatments for those with weakened immune systems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project start | May 13, 2025 |
| Project end | April 30, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $666,567 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AI186079-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11132472 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include newborns and individuals with immune deficiencies, such as those living with AIDS or organ transplant recipients.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with robust immune systems and no history of viral infections are unlikely to benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of natural killer (NK) cells in combating viral infections, particularly focusing on human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) and its impact on vulnerable populations like newborns and AIDS patients. The study employs advanced techniques such as CRISPR screening to identify key transcription factors that regulate NK cell function. By analyzing blood samples from patients and using mouse models, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms that enhance NK cell activity against viruses, which could lead to improved therapies for those with weakened immune systems.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that enhance the immune response in patients with viral infections, particularly those with compromised immune systems.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown success in understanding NK cell function in animal models, but this research aims to translate those findings to human applications, making it a novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California Los Angeles
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: O'sullivan, Timothy E — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: O'sullivan, Timothy E
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.