Creating new tools to target harmful immune cells in autoimmune diseases

Developing Novel Tools for Precision Targeting of Pro-Autoimmune Th17 Cells

NIH-funded research University of Southern California · NIH-11120721

This study is looking for better treatments for autoimmune diseases by finding ways to target specific harmful cells in your immune system, so you can feel better without losing your body's ability to fight off infections.

Quick facts

Grant typeR03 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Southern California NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-11120721 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on autoimmune diseases, where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own tissues. It aims to develop precise treatments that selectively target harmful Th17 cells, which are involved in these diseases, while preserving the immune system's ability to fight infections. The approach includes screening existing drugs and designing new inhibitors to improve treatment effectiveness and reduce side effects. By establishing a high-throughput drug screening pipeline, the research seeks to identify selective inhibitors that can better manage autoimmune conditions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with autoimmune diseases who are seeking more targeted treatment options.

Not a fit: Patients with autoimmune diseases who are not responsive to biologic therapies or those with other unrelated health conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and safer treatments for patients with autoimmune diseases.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting specific immune cells for autoimmune diseases, indicating that this approach could lead to significant advancements.

Where this research is happening

Los Angeles, UNITED STATES

Researchers

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 below.
Conditions Autoimmune Diseasesautoimmune disorderautoimmunity diseasebacteria infectionbacterial disease
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.