Understanding how WDFY4 affects the development of regulatory T cells
Official title: Role of WDFY4 in Treg development
Funded at Washington University · NIH-11165331 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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 type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2025 |
| Project end | April 30, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $737,502 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AI191447-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11165331 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with autoimmune conditions or those interested in understanding their immune system better.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-autoimmune conditions or those not affected by immune system dysregulation may not benefit from this research.
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.
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 gone: 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
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Murphy, Kenneth M — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Murphy, Kenneth M
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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.