Targeting B cells to treat pemphigus vulgaris without immunosuppression
Official title: Developing non-immunosuppressive immune-based therapeutics for targeted treatment of autoimmune diseases
Funded at Dana-Farber Cancer Inst · NIH-10913296 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking for new ways to help people with pemphigus vulgaris by targeting the harmful cells that cause painful blisters, using blood samples from patients and animal models to find safer treatments that have fewer side effects than current options.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Dana-Farber Cancer Inst NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | August 24, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $664,312 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI165666-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10913296 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with pemphigus vulgaris, particularly those who are treatment-naive or experiencing a relapse.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with autoimmune diseases other than pemphigus vulgaris may not benefit from this specific research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on pemphigus vulgaris, an autoimmune disease where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own cells, leading to painful blisters. The project aims to develop new therapies that specifically target and eliminate the harmful B cells producing autoantibodies against a protein called desmoglein-3, which is crucial for skin adhesion. By using blood samples from patients and animal models, the researchers will evaluate the effectiveness and safety of these targeted treatments. This approach seeks to minimize the side effects associated with traditional immunosuppressive therapies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a safer and more effective treatment option for patients with pemphigus vulgaris, reducing the need for broad immunosuppression.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting specific B cells in autoimmune diseases, suggesting that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
Dana-Farber Cancer Inst
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rashidian, Mohammad — Dana-Farber Cancer Inst
- Study coordinator: Rashidian, Mohammad
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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.