Understanding how natural killer cells kill infected or cancerous cells
Official title: Genetic dissection of cytolytic exocytosis from natural killer cells
Funded at University of Colorado Denver · NIH-11015074 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how special immune cells called natural killer (NK) cells work to fight off infections and cancer by figuring out what helps them destroy harmful cells, which could lead to new treatments to boost your immune system.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | January 24, 2024 |
| Project end | November 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $75,660 |
| NIH project number | 5R03AI178109-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11015074 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions that involve immune deficiencies or chronic infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-immune related conditions or those not affected by infections or cancer may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which natural killer (NK) cells, a type of immune cell, destroy infected or cancerous cells. It focuses on the process of cytolytic granule exocytosis, where NK cells release molecules that induce cell death in their targets. Using advanced techniques like CRISPR screens, the study aims to identify the genetic factors that regulate this critical immune response. By enhancing our understanding of NK cell function, the research seeks to uncover potential therapeutic targets for improving immune responses in diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that enhance the immune system's ability to fight infections and cancer.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding immune cell functions using similar genetic dissection approaches, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Colorado Denver
Aurora, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Li, Suzhao — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Li, Suzhao
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.