miR-21 and B cells in lupus: how a tiny molecule can drive autoimmunity
Official title: miR-21 regulation of autoreactive B cell and lupus nephritis development
Funded at Thomas Jefferson University · NIH-11367446 · Data updated 2026-11-12
Aims to understand how a microRNA called miR-21 influences B cells and kidney inflammation in lupus, with the goal of finding targeted therapies for people with SLE.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Thomas Jefferson University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | July 18, 2022 |
| Project end | June 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $533,851 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI155666-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11367446 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
People with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) or those at risk of autoimmunity who could benefit from therapies targeting B cell–driven autoimmunity.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with lupus who do not rely on B cell–driven autoimmunity or do not respond to miR-21–targeted approaches may see limited benefit.
What this research studies
This project looks at how miR-21 affects B cell activation and autoantibody production in a lupus-prone mouse model, focusing on TLR7-driven disease. Researchers will examine changes in germinal center B cells, T follicular helper cells, and antibody-producing cells when miR-21 is removed. The work aims to uncover mechanisms by which miR-21 contributes to loss of tolerance and to identify potential targets for therapy in SLE. Findings could point toward new treatments to reduce autoantibody production and kidney involvement in people with lupus.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the research could lead to targeted therapies that reduce autoantibody production and kidney damage in lupus patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous work shows miR-21 influences autoimmunity in mouse models, supporting potential translational relevance, though human applications are still exploratory.
Where this research is happening
-
Thomas Jefferson University
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rahman, Ziaur — Thomas Jefferson University
- Study coordinator: Rahman, Ziaur
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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.