Epigenetic regulation of mait cell development and function by histone demethylase JMJD3

Active Project Grant Awarded Last action

Award ID
F31AI200248
Recipient
Awarding agency
Obligated
$99,192

Award facts

Assistance listing
93.855 Allergy and Infectious Diseases Research
Completion date 0% complete
Originally
Place of performance
East Lansing, MI 48824, USA

Award details come from USAspending.gov.

Description

Abstract
Mucosal-associated invariant T (MAIT) cells are a specialized subset of innate-like T cells that recognize microbial-derived riboflavin metabolites presented by the non-polymorphic MHC class I-related molecule MR1. MAIT cells are enriched in mucosal tissues and play key roles in antimicrobial defense and tissue homeostasis. However, the transcriptional and epigenetic mechanisms governing MAIT cell development and function remain incompletely defined. Recent data from our laboratory suggest that the histone demethylase JMJD3 (KDM6B), a known regulator of immune cell differentiation, plays a critical role in MAIT cell biology. Using a conditional knockout model targeting JMJD3 in developing T cells, we observed impaired MAIT cell development and function, particularly in MAIT17, suggesting that JMJD3 may regulate lineage-defining transcriptional programs in these cells. This project aims to define the role of JMJD3 in MAIT cell development and effector differentiation by integrating flow cytometry, transcriptomic, and epigenomic approaches in both wild-type and JMJD3-deficient mice. Specific goals include: (1) defining the role of JMJD3 in MAIT cell homeostasis, thymic egress, and function; and (2) determining the mechanisms by which JMJD3 regulates MAIT cell development and function. These studies will clarify how histone demethylation shapes MAIT cell identity and may reveal epigenetic mechanisms that can be therapeutically targeted in mucosal inflammatory diseases. The proposed fellowship includes a comprehensive training plan designed to provide the applicant with expertise in immunology, epigenetics, and computational biology. Training activities include hands-on experience with advanced flow cytometry, single-cell and bulk RNA-sequencing, atac-SEQ, and cut & run as well as formal coursework in statistical analysis and chromatin biology. The applicant will be mentored by DR. Qing-sheng MI, an expert in innate-like T cells, and supported by a multidisciplinary team of committee members and collaborators. The research will be conducted at michigan state university's department of microbiology, genetics, and immunology (MGI), an institution with robust resources in immunology, genomics, and mouse models. This integrated research and training plan will prepare the applicant for a successful career as an independent investigator in immunology and epigenetics.

Transactions

Action Obligated Date
Amendment $49,596
Amendment $0
Amendment $49,596
Original award $0

Quick answers

Who received award F31AI200248?

F31AI200248 was awarded to Michigan State University by National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (National Institutes of Health) on November 25, 2026.

How much is award F31AI200248 worth?

$99,192 has been obligated on F31AI200248.

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