How inflammation from arthritis may lead to heart disease
Official title: Trained immunity as a link between Inflammatory Arthritis and development of Cardiovascular Disease
Funded at Brigham and Women's Hospital · NIH-10870309 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how long-term inflammation from rheumatoid arthritis might make certain immune cells more active, which could increase the risk of heart problems for people with RA, and it aims to find new ways to help manage these risks.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brigham and Women's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | September 19, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $139,895 |
| NIH project number | 1R03AR084000-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10870309 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis who may be at risk for cardiovascular disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without rheumatoid arthritis or those with other forms of arthritis unrelated to cardiovascular disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how chronic inflammation from rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can change the behavior of immune cells, specifically monocytes and neutrophils, making them more reactive to future stimuli. The study aims to understand if this 'trained immunity' in immune cells contributes to the development of cardiovascular diseases in RA patients. Using mouse models, the researchers will explore the effects of RA on immune cells in both the joints and the aorta, looking for links between inflammation and heart disease. This could provide insights into new treatment strategies for patients with RA and related cardiovascular risks.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and management of cardiovascular risks in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.
How similar studies have gone: While the concept of trained immunity is relatively new, preliminary findings suggest that similar mechanisms have been observed in other inflammatory conditions, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
Brigham and Women's Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Maclauchlan, Susan C. — Brigham and Women's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Maclauchlan, Susan C.
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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.