Epigenetic changes in B cells that drive lupus autoantibodies
Epigenetics of the autoantibody response in systemic lupus
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS HLTH SCIENCE CENTER · NIH-11159391
This research is looking at how an enzyme called Tet2 and related epigenetic changes in B cells lead to the harmful antibodies seen in systemic lupus.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS HLTH SCIENCE CENTER (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SAN ANTONIO, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11159391 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
From a patient's point of view, the team will study B cells from lupus and lab models to see how Tet2 is turned on during the process that makes antibodies. They will map DNA and chromatin changes using techniques such as ATAC-seq and examine how Tet2 helps activate key antibody genes (AICDA/AID and PRDM1/Blimp-1). The project will test both Tet2's chemical activity (which needs iron and a-ketoglutarate) and its non-chemical role in recruiting OGT to change histones. Researchers will also explore how hormones and metabolic signals, like estrogen and nutrients, influence Tet2 and autoantibody production.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with systemic lupus erythematosus, particularly those with active disease or high autoantibody levels and willing to give blood samples, would be ideal candidates.
Not a fit: People without lupus or those not willing to provide blood or clinical information would likely not see direct benefit from this project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal targets to reduce or prevent the harmful autoantibodies in lupus and guide new treatments.
How similar studies have performed: Prior studies show epigenetic factors can change B cell antibody responses, but focusing on Tet2's specific role in lupus is a more recent and emerging direction.
Where this research is happening
SAN ANTONIO, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS HLTH SCIENCE CENTER — SAN ANTONIO, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: CASALI, PAOLO — UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS HLTH SCIENCE CENTER
- Study coordinator: CASALI, PAOLO
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 below.