CD8 T cells and their role in driving inflammation in arthritis
Official title: CD8 T cell derived Granzyme K activates complement that drives synovial fibroblast inflammation
Funded at Brigham and Women's Hospital · NIH-10933485 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain immune cells called CD8 T cells can cause inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis by using a protein called Granzyme K, and it hopes to find new ways to help people with RA understand their condition better and explore new treatment options.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brigham and Women's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | September 22, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $374,194 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AR081792-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10933485 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, particularly those exhibiting elevated CD8 T cell activity.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with rheumatoid arthritis who do not have significant CD8 T cell involvement may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how CD8 T cells contribute to inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) by activating a complement pathway through a protein called Granzyme K. The study aims to understand the mechanisms by which Granzyme K influences synovial fibroblasts, which are cells involved in joint inflammation. By examining the interactions between CD8 T cells and these fibroblasts, the research seeks to uncover new insights into the inflammatory processes in RA. Patients may benefit from a better understanding of their condition and potential new therapeutic targets.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that specifically target the inflammatory processes in rheumatoid arthritis.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown that targeting complement activation can influence inflammatory responses, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Brigham and Women's Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Brenner, Michael B. — Brigham and Women's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Brenner, Michael B.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.