Regulation of T helper cell functions by aryl hydrocarbon receptor

Dr. Choi and his laboratory have substantial expertise in CRISPR manipulation of primary human T cells, and interrogation of T cells using genomic and epigenetic analyses. Dr. Choi will be responsible for CRISPR analysis of T cell transcription factors in a high-throughput format to identify factors that regulate T cell acquisition of a Tph cell phenotype. In Years 1-2, CRISPR analysis will focus on currently identified candidate transcription factors. In Years 3-5 CRISPR analyses will focus on additional targets identified in collaboration with Dr. Rao through transcriptomic and epigenetic T cell analyses. Throughout the project, Dr. Choi and his lab will work closely Dr. Rao and his lab to analyze data jointly and discuss results and subsequent experiments on twice monthly virtual joint lab meetings. In addition, on an annual basis, Dr. Choi will work with Dr. Rao to provide material for annual progress reports and then the final report to the sponsor.