Understanding how the NLRP3 inflammasome is activated
Official title: Elucidating the functional mechanism of NLRP3 inflammasome activation
Funded at Boston Children's Hospital · NIH-11041081 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a part of your immune system called the NLRP3 inflammasome to understand how it causes inflammation and cell damage, which could help us learn more about diseases like Alzheimer's and other age-related issues, ultimately aiming to find new ways to help patients feel better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston Children's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | May 26, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $708,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI177778-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11041081 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or other aging-related disorders characterized by inflammation.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-aging related conditions or those not experiencing significant inflammation may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the NLRP3 inflammasome, a key component of the innate immune system that can trigger inflammation and cell death in response to various stress signals. By examining how NLRP3 is activated, the research aims to uncover its role in diseases such as Alzheimer's and other aging-related disorders. The approach involves studying the molecular interactions and mechanisms that lead to inflammasome activation, which could provide insights into potential therapeutic targets. Patients may benefit from a better understanding of how inflammation contributes to their conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that reduce inflammation and improve outcomes for patients with Alzheimer's and related diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that targeting inflammasome pathways can be effective in treating inflammatory diseases, suggesting a promising avenue for this investigation.
Where this research is happening
-
Boston Children's Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wu, Hao — Boston Children's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Wu, Hao
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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.