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Uncovering the Role of X Chromsome Inactivation Escapees in T Cell Function

Project description

X chromosome genes and T cell immunity

The X chromosome carries many immune-related genes. In females, one X chromosome is usually inactivated in each cell, but some genes escape this process and are expressed from both X chromosomes. This explains why women typically mount more robust immune responses than men. With the support of the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions programme, the X-CITE project aims to uncover how the X chromosome immune-related genes that escape inactivation affect T cell function. By studying the molecular mechanisms, the project is designed to reveal how sex-biased gene expression shapes immune responses. Ultimately, these insights could guide strategies to enhance T cell-based cancer immunotherapies, improving treatment outcomes for both sexes.

Objective

Sex differences play a significant role in immune function, with women generally mounting stronger immune responses than men. A key factor behind these differences is the X chromosome, which contains many genes that are important for immune function. In females, who have two X chromosomes, one of the X chromosomes is usually inactivated in each cell to prevent an overdose of X-linked gene expression. This process is known as X-chromosome inactivation (XCI). However, some genes can escape this inactivation and are expressed from both X chromosomes. These escapee genes are often expressed at higher levels in females than in males, who only have one X chromosome. The X-CITE (X-Chromosome Inactivation and T cell Escape) project aims to elucidate the molecular mechanisms by which these XCI escapee genes influence T cell responses. Understanding these mechanisms is crucial, as T cells are central to the success of cancer immunotherapy, where sex-based differences in T cell function may impact treatment outcomes. By exploring the sex-biased expression of XCI escapee genes, this project will advance our understanding of sex differences in immune responses and provide new insights into how T cells can be manipulated to improve the efficacy of cancer immunotherapy. The research will be conducted at the Landsteiner Laboratory Amsterdam UMC-Sanquin (The Netherlands), under the supervision of Dr. Monika Wolkers, whose lab specializes in T cell biology and the enhancement of T cell functions in immunotherapy settings.

Fields of science (EuroSciVoc)

Keywords

Programme(s)

Topic(s)

Funding Scheme

HORIZON-TMA-MSCA-PF-EF - HORIZON TMA MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships - European Fellowships

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Call for proposal

(opens in new window) HORIZON-MSCA-2024-PF-01

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Coordinator

Stichting Sanquin Bloedvoorziening
Net EU contribution
€ 232 916,16
Address
Plesmanlaan 125
1006 AN Amsterdam
Netherlands
Activity type
Research Organisations
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Total cost
No data