Understanding how immune receptors evolve across different organisms

Cross-kingdom health: evolution of innate immune receptors and their targets

NIH-funded research University of California Berkeley · NIH-11136650

This study is looking at how certain immune system proteins have changed and adapted in different living things, like plants and fungi, to help us better understand how our immune systems have evolved over time.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California Berkeley NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Berkeley, United States)
Project IDNIH-11136650 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the evolution of innate immune receptors, specifically from the NLR protein family, and their role in interactions between different organisms. By analyzing genomic biodiversity, the project aims to uncover how these receptors have adapted and diversified over time, potentially leading to advancements in our understanding of immune system evolution. The research will involve comparative genomics and experimental validation to explore the mechanisms behind immune receptor functionality in various species, including plants and fungi.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions related to immune system dysfunction or those interested in the genetic basis of immunity.

Not a fit: Patients with established adaptive immunity disorders may not benefit directly from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of immune responses, potentially leading to new treatments for immune-related conditions.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in understanding immune receptor evolution, but this approach may provide novel insights into cross-kingdom interactions.

Where this research is happening

Berkeley, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.