How lipid signals inside immune cells drive inflammatory Th17 cells
Defining how phospholipid signaling networks control Th17 differentiation and effector function
This project looks at how certain fat-based signals inside immune cells cause inflammatory Th17 cells that contribute to autoimmune conditions like multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11257250 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
From a patient's perspective, the team is trying to understand why some immune cells become overly inflammatory in autoimmune disease. They use phosphoproteomics, a technique that maps active signaling proteins, to compare pathways in inflammatory Th17 cells versus protective regulatory T cells (Treg). By pinpointing lipid-related signaling proteins that are essential for Th17 but not Treg, they hope to identify targets that small-molecule drugs could block. The results are intended to guide development of therapies that reduce harmful inflammation while preserving normal immune regulation.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis or rheumatoid arthritis, especially those willing to donate blood or tissue samples for research, would be most relevant to this work.
Not a fit: People without autoimmune conditions or those whose immune problems stem from active infections or cancer are unlikely to directly benefit in the near term.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal new drug targets to reduce damaging Th17-driven inflammation while sparing regulatory immune cells.
How similar studies have performed: Therapies that block Th17-related cytokines like IL-17 have helped patients with psoriasis and some forms of arthritis, but targeting intracellular lipid signaling in Th17 cells is a newer and less-tested approach.
Where this research is happening
Pittsburgh, United States
- University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh — Pittsburgh, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hawse, William Francis — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Hawse, William Francis
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.