How a specific receptor affects immune cell functions in autoimmune diseases
Regulation of T helper cell functions by aryl hydrocarbon receptor
This study is looking at how a specific protein called AHR affects certain immune cells that play a big role in autoimmune diseases, and it's for people who want to understand more about how their immune system works and what might be happening in their condition.
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 ID | NIH-11058364 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) in regulating T helper cell functions, which are crucial in autoimmune diseases. By examining human primary T cells and patient samples, the study aims to understand how AHR influences the development and function of T follicular helper (Tfh) and T peripheral helper (Tph) cells. The researchers will utilize advanced techniques like ChIP-seq to identify the direct targets of AHR in these immune cells, providing insights into the mechanisms behind autoimmune responses.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with autoimmune diseases, particularly those experiencing issues related to T cell and B cell interactions.
Not a fit: Patients with non-autoimmune conditions or those not exhibiting T cell-B cell interaction issues may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for managing autoimmune diseases by targeting the pathways regulated by AHR.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding immune cell regulation, but the specific role of AHR in T cell functions in autoimmune diseases is still being explored.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Brigham and Women's Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rao, Deepak Angara — Brigham and Women's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Rao, Deepak Angara
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.