DDX41 protein study on the differentiation and function of regulatory T cells (Tregs)

• Grant number: 21/02049-3
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: May 01, 2021
• End date: December 31, 2022
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Immunology - Cellular Immunology
• Principal Investigator: José Carlos Farias Alves Filho
• Grantee: Gabriella Carolina Scalice Chiari
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto (FMRP). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). Ribeirão Preto , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 13/08216-2 - CRID - Center for Research in Inflammatory Diseases, AP.CEPID

Abstract

Regulatory T lymphocytes are essential cells in immune homeostasis and in maintaining self-tolerance. These cells are characterized by expressing the FoxP3 transcription factor, which is critical in their development and suppressive function. Therefore, there is considerable interest in studying the functions and mechanisms exercised by this subset of T lymphocytes. DDX41 (Probable ATP-dependent RNA helicase DDX41) is an RNA helicase member of the DEAD box helicase family. This protein acts as a cytosolic DNA sensor and can induce the production of innate immunity molecules. This function occurs through the interaction with the molecule STING (Stimulator of Interferon Genes) that culminates in the production of type I interferons by activation of NFkB and IRF3. Although the DDX41 protein is widely described in innate immunity, little is known about its role in adaptive immunity. Data from ongoing projects of our research group suggest that this protein has an important role in the differentiation and function of regulatory T lymphocytes related to the STNG molecule. Thus, the present project proposes to investigate the role of DDX41 in the differentiation and function of regulatory T cells.