How hormone-producing cells interact with immune cells in autoimmune diseases
Modulation of immune cell phenotype by hormone-producing epithelia in autoimmune endocrinopathies
This study is looking at how immune cells and hormone-making cells work together in people with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis to find out why some can still produce hormones even when their immune system is attacking their thyroid, which could help improve treatment for autoimmune conditions that affect hormone levels.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10899777 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the interactions between immune cells and hormone-producing cells in autoimmune endocrine diseases, particularly focusing on Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. By using advanced techniques like single-cell RNA sequencing, the study aims to understand why some patients retain hormone production despite immune attacks on their thyroid. The research will analyze the unique characteristics of thyroid cells and the immune response to uncover mechanisms that protect hormone production. This could lead to new insights into managing autoimmune conditions affecting hormone levels.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis or Graves’ disease who are experiencing symptoms related to hormone production.
Not a fit: Patients with autoimmune endocrine diseases who do not have thyroid involvement or those who are already receiving effective treatment may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for patients with autoimmune endocrine diseases, potentially preserving hormone production and reducing symptoms.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding immune interactions in autoimmune diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Massachusetts General Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rengarajan, Michelle — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Rengarajan, Michelle
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.