How the AHR sensor in immune 'sentinel' cells may help calm autoimmune attacks in the brain
Role of AHR in Dendritic Cells in the Control of CNS Autoimmunity
This work looks at whether turning on a cell sensor called AHR in certain immune cells can calm harmful immune attacks in people with multiple sclerosis.
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-11237974 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers focus on dendritic cells—immune 'sentinels' that help control T cells that attack the brain in MS. They use mouse models of MS and studies of human immune cells, including single-cell RNA sequencing, to see how AHR, the transcription factor KLF4, and the enzyme CD39 shape those dendritic cells. The team performs genetic deletion experiments in animals to show what happens when each molecule is missing. They are also developing an engineered probiotic (EcNIAA) that makes an AHR-activating molecule to try to promote anti-inflammatory immune behavior.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with multiple sclerosis or other central nervous system autoimmune conditions, especially those with active inflammatory disease, would be the most relevant candidates.
Not a fit: People without CNS autoimmune disease or those with long-standing progressive MS driven mainly by neurodegeneration rather than inflammation may be less likely to benefit.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new therapies that reduce brain-directed autoimmune inflammation and lower relapses or disability in MS.
How similar studies have performed: Previous animal studies and laboratory work with human immune cells support AHR's role in promoting anti-inflammatory dendritic cells, while engineered probiotics to deliver AHR agonists remain an early-stage, novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Brigham and Women's Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Quintana, Francisco J. — Brigham and Women's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Quintana, Francisco J.
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.