Understanding how nuclear cGAS regulates immune responses

Regulation and Function of Nuclear cGAS

NIH-funded research University of Washington · NIH-10897011

This study is looking at how a protein called cGAS helps our immune system spot DNA viruses and how it might be linked to autoimmune diseases and cancer, with the goal of finding new ways to boost our body's defenses against infections and tumors.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Washington NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Seattle, United States)
Project IDNIH-10897011 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of nuclear cGAS in detecting DNA viruses and its implications for autoimmune diseases and cancer immunity. By exploring how cGAS is regulated within the nucleus, the study aims to uncover mechanisms that prevent its activation against the body's own DNA. The researchers are developing innovative tools to track cGAS behavior during infections and its interactions with nucleic acids. This could lead to new insights into how the immune system can be harnessed to fight infections and tumors.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with autoimmune diseases or those at risk for DNA virus infections.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to DNA virus infections or autoimmune responses may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies for autoimmune diseases and improved cancer treatments by enhancing the body's immune response.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding immune responses related to cGAS, indicating that this approach could lead to significant advancements.

Where this research is happening

Seattle, 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 Autoimmune Diseases
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 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.