The University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) received a $639,485 Project Grant award from the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (CFDA 93.855 - Allergy and Infectious Diseases Research) to investigate the mechanisms of STAT1 and STAT3 activation in physiology and disease. The 5-year project, which commenced on March 1, 2025, aims to elucidate how activated STAT1 and STAT3 proteins enter the cell nucleus and drive gene expression, as well as the impact of gain-of-function mutations in these proteins. Using cryogenic electron microscopy, biochemical, biophysical, and cellular methodologies, the research team will characterize the quaternary structure and nuclear import mechanisms of STAT1 and STAT3, and establish a comprehensive atlas of known disease-associated mutations. This work seeks to advance the understanding of innate antimicrobial protection and immune signaling, with potential implications for immunodeficiencies and autoimmune conditions.
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