Targeting specific B cells in lupus to improve treatment outcomes
Official title: Precision immunotherapies targeting the 9G4 idiotype in lupus erythematosus
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-10772166 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new treatment that uses your own immune cells to specifically target and remove harmful B cells in people with lupus, aiming to help manage your symptoms while keeping your healthy B cells safe.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $204,688 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI176764-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10772166 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus who have a significant presence of 9G4 idiotype B cells.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have systemic lupus erythematosus or those whose disease does not involve 9G4 idiotype B cells may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing precision immunotherapies that specifically target autoreactive B cells in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). By redirecting a patient's own T cells to selectively bind and eliminate these harmful B cells, the approach aims to reduce disease symptoms while preserving normal B cell function. The study will utilize a unique characteristic of these autoreactive B cells, known as the 9G4 idiotype, to create targeted therapies that minimize the risk of infections associated with broader B cell depletion. Patients may have the opportunity to participate in innovative treatments that could lead to better management of their condition.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and safer treatments for patients with lupus, reducing disease activity without compromising the immune system.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting specific B cell populations in autoimmune diseases, suggesting that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Konig, Maximilian Ferdinand — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Konig, Maximilian Ferdinand
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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.