Targeting harmful immune cells in lupus

Concurrent eradication of pathogenic plasma cells and their precursors in systemic lupus erythematosus

NIH-funded research Beckman Research Institute/city of Hope · NIH-10872773

This study is looking for a new, safer treatment for women with lupus that targets and removes the harmful cells causing their symptoms, using a special non-toxic approach to help improve their health.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBeckman Research Institute/city of Hope NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Duarte, United States)
Project IDNIH-10872773 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), a chronic autoimmune disease primarily affecting women. It aims to develop a new treatment that specifically targets and eliminates harmful plasma cells and their precursors, which produce autoantibodies that attack the body's own tissues. The approach involves using a patented, non-toxic splice-modulating oligomer to prevent the production of certain proteins associated with disease exacerbation. By doing so, the research seeks to provide a more effective and safer treatment option for patients with SLE.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus, particularly women aged 15 to 44.

Not a fit: Patients with other autoimmune diseases or those not diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a targeted therapy that provides sustained remission for patients with lupus while minimizing side effects.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach of targeting specific immune cells in lupus is innovative, similar strategies have shown promise in other autoimmune conditions, indicating potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Duarte, United States

Researchers

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 below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.