What controls gene activity in human brain immune cells (microglia)
Mechanisms controlling human microglia gene expression
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO · NIH-11145930
Researchers are mapping how gene activity and regulatory DNA guide human microglia, the brain's immune cells, to better understand brain health and disease.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11145930 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
You would hear that scientists are studying the genes that turn on and off in human microglia, the immune cells that live in the brain. They will analyze human-derived cells and tissue to find genetic variants and DNA regions that control microglia gene activity. The team will focus on key regulatory factors like SALL1 and use a mouse model that supports a human-like microglia state to see how the brain environment shapes these cells. The work combines human samples, genetic analyses, and lab models to build a map of microglia gene regulation.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People who donate brain tissue after death or who consent to provide surgical brain samples, cerebrospinal fluid, or blood-derived cells for research would be the most likely participants or sample donors.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate medical treatments or clinical therapies would not expect direct benefit because this is basic laboratory research aimed at long-term understanding.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to new targets for treating neurodegenerative and inflammatory brain conditions by revealing how microglia behavior is controlled.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have mapped microglia gene programs and recent methods have produced human-like microglia in mouse brains, but translating these findings into treatments remains early-stage.
Where this research is happening
LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO — LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: GLASS, CHRISTOPHER K — UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO
- Study coordinator: GLASS, CHRISTOPHER K
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.