Investigating how certain immune cells develop in lupus
Official title: Cytokine-mediated B-cell development in lupus
Funded at Birmingham VA Medical Center · NIH-11098475 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific protein called IKAROS helps keep B-cells calm and prevents them from causing problems in people with lupus, and it involves patients providing samples to help researchers understand this better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Birmingham VA Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Birmingham, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| NIH project number | 5I01BX006099-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11098475 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) who are experiencing issues related to B-cell activation.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other autoimmune conditions not related to B-cell dysfunction may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of the IKAROS transcription factor in regulating B-cell development in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). It aims to explore how this factor maintains a state of quiescence in B-cells, which is crucial for preventing the activation of autoantibodies that contribute to lupus. By analyzing gene expression and the effects of type I interferon signaling, the study seeks to identify the mechanisms that lead to the loss of B-cell quiescence and the subsequent development of autoimmune responses. Patients may be involved in providing samples to help elucidate these pathways.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for managing lupus by targeting B-cell activation and autoantibody production.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding B-cell regulation in autoimmune diseases, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Birmingham VA Medical Center
Birmingham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mountz, John D — Birmingham VA Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Mountz, John D
Related research
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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.