Understanding how kindlin-3 helps blood cells stick to blood vessels

Mechanism of kindlin-3-dependent integrin activation

NIH-funded research University of California, San Diego · NIH-10902042

This study is looking at how a protein called kindlin-3 helps blood cells stick to blood vessels, which is really important for people with Leukocyte Adhesion Deficiency-III, a condition that makes it hard for their bodies to stop bleeding and fight infections.

Quick facts

Grant typeP01 program project
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Diego NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (La Jolla, United States)
Project IDNIH-10902042 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of kindlin-3 in activating integrins, which are crucial for the adhesion of blood cells like platelets and leukocytes to blood vessels. It focuses on patients with Leukocyte Adhesion Deficiency-III, a condition caused by mutations in the FERMT3 gene, leading to severe bleeding and infections. The research employs advanced techniques such as flow cytometry and superresolution microscopy to study how kindlin-3 functions in blood cells. By using a specially designed mouse model, researchers aim to uncover the mechanisms behind integrin activation and its implications for treating related diseases.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Leukocyte Adhesion Deficiency-III or related conditions affecting blood cell adhesion.

Not a fit: Patients without mutations in the FERMT3 gene or those not experiencing issues with blood cell adhesion may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for patients suffering from severe bleeding and bacterial infections due to integrin activation issues.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding integrin activation mechanisms, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

La Jolla, 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.
Conditions Bacterial Infections
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.