Understanding lipid enzymes that control cell signaling and could be targeted by new drugs
Chemical proteomic investigation of lipid kinase specificity and druggability
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN · NIH-11240285
This work aims to identify how specific lipid‑processing enzymes (diacylglycerol kinases) work so researchers can develop drugs that might boost immune attacks on tumors.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (AUSTIN, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11240285 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Researchers will use chemical probes and proteomics to map how each diacylglycerol kinase (DGK) enzyme binds lipids and small molecules. They will compare active and non‑catalytic domains across DGK isoforms to learn what makes each one recognize different substrates and inhibitors. Laboratory tests in cells and animal models will examine whether blocking the DGKα enzyme can restore the activity of tumor‑infiltrating immune cells. The findings will guide design of selective DGK inhibitors and inform possible future clinical testing.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: In the future, patients with cancers characterized by poor tumor‑infiltrating lymphocyte function or immunosuppressed tumors could be candidates for therapies developed from this work.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to diacylglycerol kinase or lipid‑mediated immune suppression are unlikely to benefit from these findings.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new drugs that reverse lipid‑based immune suppression and help the immune system fight cancer more effectively.
How similar studies have performed: Some preclinical studies suggest DGKα blockade can boost T‑cell function, but clinical proof of benefit in patients is still limited and this approach remains experimental.
Where this research is happening
AUSTIN, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN — AUSTIN, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: HSU, KU-LUNG — UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN
- Study coordinator: HSU, KU-LUNG
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 below.