Understanding how WDFY4 affects the development of regulatory T cells

Role of WDFY4 in Treg development

NIH-funded research Washington University · NIH-11165331

This study is looking at how a protein called WDFY4 helps certain immune cells, called regulatory T cells, do their job in keeping our immune system balanced and preventing autoimmune diseases, which is important for everyone who wants to stay healthy.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWashington University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Saint Louis, United States)
Project IDNIH-11165331 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of a protein called WDFY4 in the development and activation of regulatory T cells (Tregs), which are crucial for maintaining immune balance and preventing autoimmune diseases. The study will explore how a specific type of immune cell, known as cDC1, presents self-antigens to Tregs and how WDFY4 influences this process. By using advanced techniques like CRISPR/Cas9, researchers aim to uncover the mechanisms behind Treg activation and their implications for immune responses against infections and tumors.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with autoimmune conditions or those interested in understanding their immune system better.

Not a fit: Patients with non-autoimmune conditions or those not affected by immune system dysregulation may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating autoimmune diseases and improving immune responses in cancer therapies.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding Treg activation and its implications for autoimmune diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Saint Louis, 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 Diseasesautoimmune disorderautoimmunity disease
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.