Investigating how B cell-targeted therapies can help prevent kidney transplant rejection in primates
Official title: Immune repertoire remodeling following B cell-targeted CAR T cells for induction of renal allograft tolerance in non-human primates
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11108442 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at new treatments that target specific immune cells to help kidney transplants last longer without needing strong medications, which could make life easier for patients receiving transplants.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | May 13, 2025 |
| Project end | April 30, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $1,648,086 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AI190177-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11108442 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have received or are considering kidney transplants and may be at risk for rejection.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not candidates for kidney transplantation or those with conditions that contraindicate participation in experimental therapies may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the use of B cell-targeted therapies to induce tolerance in kidney transplants, aiming to prevent chronic immune rejection. By utilizing a combination of a CD20-specific antibody and T cell depletion, the study examines how these treatments can prolong the survival of kidney allografts in non-human primates. The approach focuses on understanding the immune response and the role of B cells in transplant acceptance, which could lead to less reliance on long-term immunosuppression. Patients may benefit from insights gained that could translate into improved kidney transplant outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective strategies for preventing kidney transplant rejection, reducing the need for lifelong immunosuppression.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promise in using B cell-targeted therapies for transplant tolerance, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Naji, Ali — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Naji, Ali
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.