Targeting autoimmune responses in Myasthenia Gravis using engineered T cells
Official title: Antigen-Specific Immunosuppression of Myasthenia Gravis by CAR-Engineered Tregs
Funded at George Washington University · NIH-11121075 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new treatment for Myasthenia Gravis by creating special immune cells that can help calm down the body's attack on muscles, and it's designed to help people who struggle with this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | George Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Washington, United States) |
| Project start | June 18, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $246,081 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI180673-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11121075 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Myasthenia Gravis who are experiencing significant symptoms related to the autoimmune response.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with Myasthenia Gravis who do not have a significant autoimmune component or those with other underlying conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a new treatment for Myasthenia Gravis (MG), an autoimmune condition that affects muscle function. The approach involves engineering regulatory T cells (Tregs) to specifically target and suppress the harmful immune response against acetylcholine receptors, which are crucial for muscle contraction. By using a technique called chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) engineering, the researchers aim to create Tregs that can effectively reduce the activity of autoreactive immune cells. The study will evaluate the effectiveness of these engineered Tregs in a rat model that mimics the disease, providing insights into their potential therapeutic benefits for patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a targeted therapy that specifically suppresses the autoimmune response in Myasthenia Gravis, potentially improving muscle function and quality of life for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using engineered T cells for autoimmune diseases, indicating that this approach may be effective, although it is still considered a novel application for Myasthenia Gravis.
Where this research is happening
-
George Washington University
Washington, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Luo, Jie — George Washington University
- Study coordinator: Luo, Jie
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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.