Identifying immune responses to double-stranded RNA

Systematic identification and characterization of immunogenic double-stranded RNAs

NIH-funded research Stanford University · NIH-11009046

This study is looking at how our immune system tells the difference between harmful viruses and our own body’s RNA, focusing on a protein called ADAR1 that helps prevent autoimmune issues, and it hopes to find new ways to treat autoimmune disorders that affect people.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionStanford University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Stanford, United States)
Project IDNIH-11009046 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how the immune system recognizes double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) and differentiates between harmful viral RNA and the body's own RNA. It focuses on a protein called ADAR1 that modifies cellular dsRNA to prevent autoimmune reactions. By studying mouse models and human diseases, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms behind autoimmune conditions linked to dsRNA and improve understanding of related inflammatory diseases. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new treatments for autoimmune disorders.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with autoimmune diseases such as Aicardi-Goutieres Syndrome, Inflammatory Bowel Disease, Multiple Sclerosis, and other related conditions.

Not a fit: Patients with autoimmune diseases not linked to dsRNA mechanisms or those without any autoimmune conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating autoimmune diseases by enhancing the body's ability to distinguish between self and non-self RNA.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of RNA editing in autoimmune diseases, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Stanford, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Aicardi Goutieres syndromeatherosclerotic coronary diseaseAutoimmune Diseasesautoimmune disorder
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.