NIH-funded research Sbir 1 grant

Targeting autoantibody production to treat lupus

Official title: Silencing autoantibody secretion for SLE therapy

Funded at Larix Bioscience, LLC · NIH-10838510 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is testing a new treatment for people with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) that aims to reduce harmful antibodies without affecting the immune cells that help protect against infections, making it a safer option for managing the condition.

Quick facts

Grant typeSbir 1 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionLarix Bioscience, LLC
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Sunnyvale, United States)
Project startMay 8, 2023
Project endApril 30, 2026
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$299,773
NIH project number5R43AI172662-02
Project IDNIH-10838510 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus who are experiencing issues related to autoantibody production.

Less likely to help

Patients with other autoimmune disorders or those who do not have Systemic Lupus Erythematosus may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a new therapy for Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), an autoimmune disorder characterized by harmful autoantibody production. The approach involves silencing the secretion of these autoantibodies without depleting B cells, which are essential for immune protection. By targeting a specific protein called CD79a, the therapy aims to inhibit the immune response that leads to autoantibody formation, potentially offering a safer treatment option for patients. This innovative method seeks to provide a reversible solution that maintains the patient's ability to fight infections while managing their autoimmune condition.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a safer and more effective treatment for patients with lupus, reducing harmful autoantibody levels without compromising their immune system.

How similar studies have gone: While the approach of targeting CD79a is innovative, similar strategies in autoimmune therapies have shown promise, suggesting potential for success.

Where this research is happening

  • Larix Bioscience, LLC
    Sunnyvale, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Mendelsohn, Andrew R — Larix Bioscience, LLC
  • Study coordinator: Mendelsohn, Andrew R

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.