Investigating how lung neutrophils may trigger rheumatoid arthritis-related autoimmunity.

Neutrophil Extracellular Traps in the Lung and Development of Rheumatoid Arthritis-Related Autoimmunity and Arthritis

NIH-funded research University of Colorado Denver · NIH-10781889

This study is looking at how certain traps made by immune cells in the lungs might be connected to the early signs of rheumatoid arthritis, and it's for people who are at risk of developing this condition.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Colorado Denver NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10781889 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores the role of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) in the lungs and their potential link to the development of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). It aims to understand how these NETs may trigger the formation of anti-citrullinated protein antibodies (ACPA), which are early indicators of RA. By collecting induced sputum from individuals at risk for RA, the study will analyze the processes of NET formation and clearance to identify their contributions to ACPA generation. This could lead to novel prevention strategies for RA by targeting these mechanisms.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are at risk for developing rheumatoid arthritis, particularly those with a family history or specific serological markers.

Not a fit: Patients who are already diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis or those without any risk factors for the disease may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new prevention strategies for rheumatoid arthritis, potentially reducing the incidence of the disease.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated a correlation between NET remnants and ACPA in at-risk individuals, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights into RA development.

Where this research is happening

Aurora, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.