How immune cells and hormone-producing cells interact in autoimmune thyroid conditions
Modulation of immune cell phenotype by hormone-producing epithelia in autoimmune endocrinopathies
This project aims to understand why some people with Hashimoto's thyroiditis lose hormone production while others do not, by looking closely at how immune cells and thyroid cells communicate.
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-11159420 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
In autoimmune diseases like Hashimoto's thyroiditis, the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own hormone-producing cells, which can lead to tissue damage and a loss of hormone production. We are exploring why only some patients with Hashimoto's thyroiditis develop low thyroid hormone levels, while others maintain normal hormone production despite immune cell presence in their thyroid. Our approach involves studying human thyroid tissue from patients with Hashimoto's, Graves' disease, and those without autoimmune thyroid conditions, using advanced techniques to examine individual cells. We have found unique thyroid cell populations and immune cells that may help explain these differences.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients with autoimmune thyroid conditions, particularly Hashimoto's thyroiditis or Graves' disease, could benefit from the insights gained from this fundamental research.
Not a fit: Patients without autoimmune thyroid conditions or those with other types of endocrine disorders may not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: This work could lead to a better understanding of autoimmune thyroid diseases, potentially guiding the development of new ways to prevent hormone loss in patients.
How similar studies have performed: While the role of epithelial cells in antigen presentation in vivo is not fully understood, previous studies have shown immune cell infiltration in autoimmune thyroid disease.
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.