Targeting harmful immune cells to stop autoimmune diseases while preserving healthy immunity
Targeted depletion of programmed death-1 positive cells, a method that not only stops autoimmune attack but also preserves adaptive immunity
This study is exploring a new way to safely get rid of the harmful immune cells that attack your body in autoimmune diseases like Type 1 diabetes, while keeping the rest of your immune system strong and healthy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Utah NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Salt Lake City, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10778520 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates a new method to selectively eliminate harmful immune cells that attack the body in autoimmune diseases, such as Type 1 diabetes. By focusing on programmed death-1 (PD-1) positive cells, the approach aims to stop the autoimmune attack without compromising the overall immune system. This method seeks to avoid the broad immune suppression caused by current treatments, which can leave patients vulnerable to infections. The research involves identifying and targeting specific immune cells that contribute to the disease while preserving those that are essential for healthy immune function.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with autoimmune diseases, particularly those with Type 1 diabetes.
Not a fit: Patients with autoimmune diseases that do not involve PD-1 positive cells may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for autoimmune diseases that do not compromise the patient's overall immune health.
How similar studies have performed: While the approach of targeting PD-1 positive cells is innovative, similar strategies in immune modulation have shown promise in other contexts, suggesting potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Salt Lake City, United States
- University of Utah — Salt Lake City, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chen, Mingnan — University of Utah
- Study coordinator: Chen, Mingnan
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 below.