NIH-funded research R01 grant

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 typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBrigham and Women's Hospital
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project startSeptember 22, 2023
Project endAugust 31, 2028
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$374,194
NIH project number5R01AR081792-02
Project IDNIH-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

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.