Understanding How Immune Cells Develop and Remember to Fight Disease
Transcriptional Regulation of CD4+ T Cell Differentiation and Diversified Memory
This project aims to understand how certain immune cells, called T cells, develop and remember past infections or threats, which is important for conditions like autoimmune diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Alabama at Birmingham NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Birmingham, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11126728 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our immune system relies on specialized cells, like T follicular helper (Tfh) cells, to create strong, lasting protection against illness. This project explores the intricate ways these Tfh cells mature and diversify, including how they initially form and then progress to become powerful germinal center Tfh cells. We are also looking at how these cells develop a 'memory' to respond effectively in the future. By uncovering these complex processes, we hope to find new ways to influence immune responses, especially in the context of autoimmune conditions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is relevant to patients with autoimmune diseases, as it seeks to understand the basic immune processes that go awry in these conditions.
Not a fit: Patients without conditions related to immune system dysfunction or autoimmune diseases may not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to treat autoimmune diseases by better controlling how immune cells develop and function.
How similar studies have performed: This project builds upon preliminary findings that have identified novel networks and pathways involved in T cell development, suggesting a promising new direction.
Where this research is happening
Birmingham, United States
- University of Alabama at Birmingham — Birmingham, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hu, Hui — University of Alabama at Birmingham
- Study coordinator: Hu, Hui
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.