Understanding how proteins in CD8 T cells change to improve immune responses
Official title: Determination of chromatin protein dynamics in CD8 T cells
Funded at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital · NIH-10874555 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain proteins in immune cells called CD8 T cells work when they fight off viruses and tumors, with the goal of finding new ways to help improve treatments for diseases related to the immune system and cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | St. Jude Children's Research Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Memphis, United States) |
| Project start | June 23, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $227,500 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI173909-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10874555 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with immune disorders or cancers that may benefit from enhanced CD8 T cell function.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to immune function or those who do not have active immune disorders or cancers may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the dynamics of chromatin proteins in CD8 T cells, which are essential for fighting viral infections and tumors. By examining how these cells respond to various stimuli, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms that regulate their differentiation and function through gene expression. Utilizing advanced techniques like CRISPR screening, the researchers hope to identify new factors that influence CD8 T cell behavior, potentially leading to improved therapies for immune-related diseases and cancers.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for enhancing immune responses against infections and cancer.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results using similar approaches to manipulate immune cell functions, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
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St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
Memphis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Feng, Yongqiang — St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
- Study coordinator: Feng, Yongqiang
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.