Understanding how protein clusters and lipid areas work together in T-cells
Official title: Biophysical and functional coupling of protein condensates to ordered lipid domains in T-cells
Funded at University of Virginia · NIH-11049243 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how T-cells, which are important for fighting off infections, use special proteins and fats to send signals that help them work properly, and it could help us find better ways to treat immune-related health issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project start | December 6, 2024 |
| Project end | November 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $658,657 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AI183581-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11049243 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with immune system disorders or those interested in understanding T-cell function.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-immune related conditions or those not experiencing immune dysfunction may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how T-cells, which are crucial for immune responses, use specific protein clusters and lipid areas to effectively transmit signals. The study focuses on a protein called LAT that plays a key role in organizing these clusters and lipid domains at the cell membrane. By examining the interactions between these protein assemblies and lipid rafts, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms that enable T-cells to activate properly. This could lead to new insights into how immune responses are regulated and potentially improve treatments for immune-related conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of T-cell activation, leading to better therapies for immune disorders and improved vaccine responses.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding protein interactions and lipid domains in immune cells, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Virginia
Charlottesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Levental, Ilya — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Levental, Ilya
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.