Understanding how Ikaros affects immune cell development and tolerance in the thymus
Regulation of medullary thymic epithelial cells and thymic central tolerance by Ikaros
This study is looking at how a protein called Ikaros helps certain cells in the thymus teach T cells to recognize what belongs in the body and what doesn’t, which is important for preventing autoimmune diseases, and the findings could lead to new treatments for these conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10986991 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the Ikaros transcription factor in the development and function of medullary thymic epithelial cells (mTECs), which are crucial for teaching T cells to distinguish between self and non-self antigens. By analyzing how Ikaros influences the composition and function of different mTEC populations, the research aims to uncover mechanisms that maintain immune tolerance and prevent autoimmune diseases. The study employs genetic manipulation and cellular analysis techniques to explore the effects of Ikaros on T cell education and the expression of tissue-specific antigens. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new strategies for treating autoimmune conditions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals with autoimmune diseases or those at risk of developing such conditions.
Not a fit: Patients with no autoimmune conditions or those outside the age range of 21+ years may not receive any benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for autoimmune diseases.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in understanding immune tolerance mechanisms, but the specific role of Ikaros in mTECs is a novel area of investigation.
Where this research is happening
San Francisco, United States
- University of California, San Francisco — San Francisco, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Waterfield, Michael R — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Waterfield, Michael R
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 below.