Identifying immune cells linked to ulcerative colitis
Characterizing circulating and visceral T cells specific for the autoantigen integrin αvβ6 in ulcerative colitis
This study is looking at how a certain protein in your body might cause your immune system to mistakenly attack itself in ulcerative colitis, and it's for people with this condition who want to understand more about what happens in their immune system.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Benaroya Research Inst at Virginia Mason NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11046401 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the immune response in ulcerative colitis by focusing on a specific protein, integrin αvβ6, that triggers autoantibodies in patients. The team aims to identify and characterize T cells that help B cells produce these antibodies, providing insights into how the immune system loses tolerance to this protein. Using a specialized assay, they will analyze immune cells from patients' lymph nodes and colonic tissue to understand the interactions that lead to ulcerative colitis. This approach leverages existing samples from patients to explore the underlying mechanisms of the disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with ulcerative colitis or those at risk of developing the condition.
Not a fit: Patients with other gastrointestinal disorders unrelated to ulcerative colitis may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating ulcerative colitis by targeting the immune response.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in similar immune response investigations, suggesting potential for meaningful advancements in understanding ulcerative colitis.
Where this research is happening
Seattle, United States
- Benaroya Research Inst at Virginia Mason — Seattle, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lord, James Daniel — Benaroya Research Inst at Virginia Mason
- Study coordinator: Lord, James Daniel
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.