Investigating immune cells in the lungs related to rheumatoid arthritis development
Official title: Sputum Tph cells and CD14+CD16+ monocytes in the development of RA
Funded at University of Colorado Denver · NIH-10823619 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain immune cells in the lungs might help create antibodies linked to rheumatoid arthritis before any joint pain starts, so we can find ways to catch the disease earlier and help people sooner.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | January 1, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $343,200 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AR083708-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10823619 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are at risk for rheumatoid arthritis, particularly those with positive serum anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti-CCP) antibodies but no clinical symptoms.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have already been diagnosed with established rheumatoid arthritis or those without any risk factors for the disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how specific immune cells in the lungs contribute to the formation of autoantibodies associated with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). It aims to identify the role of T peripheral helper cells and intermediate monocytes in generating these antibodies during the preclinical phase of RA, which occurs years before joint inflammation begins. By analyzing sputum samples, the study seeks to uncover cellular mechanisms that predict the transition from preclinical to classified RA, potentially leading to earlier interventions. The methodology includes examining immune cell populations and measuring antibody levels in sputum to establish correlations with disease progression.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier detection and intervention strategies for individuals at risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the role of immune cells in autoimmune diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Colorado Denver
Aurora, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Demoruelle, M. Kristen — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Demoruelle, M. Kristen
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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.