Targeting T cell activation to prevent autoimmune diseases and transplant rejection
Official title: Selective Inhibitors of T Cell Activation Target Exportin-1 at Cys528 to Suppress Pathological T Cell Activation
Funded at Case Western Reserve University · NIH-11001130 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a new way to help people with conditions like graft-versus-host disease and rheumatoid arthritis by finding a way to calm down certain immune cells called T cells, using a special protein as a target, so that we can create treatments that work better and have fewer side effects.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Case Western Reserve University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cleveland, United States) |
| Project start | January 23, 2023 |
| Project end | December 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $498,038 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI171104-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11001130 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals suffering from autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis or those undergoing organ transplantation.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-autoimmune conditions or those not requiring immunomodulation may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how to selectively inhibit T cell activation to prevent harmful immune responses in conditions like graft-versus-host disease and rheumatoid arthritis. The approach focuses on a specific protein, Exportin-1, which plays a crucial role in T cell function. By developing small molecules that target this protein, the research aims to create treatments that suppress pathological T cell activity without broadly suppressing the immune system, potentially reducing side effects associated with current therapies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that effectively manage autoimmune diseases and improve transplant outcomes with fewer side effects.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success with similar approaches targeting T cell activation, indicating potential for this novel strategy.
Where this research is happening
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Case Western Reserve University
Cleveland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Adams, Drew James — Case Western Reserve University
- Study coordinator: Adams, Drew James
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.