NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Understanding B cell Behavior in SLE and Other Autoimmune Diseases

Official title: Regulation of B cell Responses in SLE and Other Autoimmune Diseases

Funded at Emory University · NIH-11332689 · Data updated 2026-11-12

Researchers are studying how B cells and their epigenetic marks behave in people with autoimmune diseases like SLE to find new ways to treat these conditions.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionEmory University
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Atlanta, United States)
Project startMay 1, 2014
Project endApril 30, 2029
Funding year2026
Award (this year)$234,750
NIH project number5U19AI110483-13
Project IDNIH-11332689 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Adults with autoimmune diseases such as SLE who have active or remitting disease and are undergoing immune profiling.

Less likely to help

Some patients may not experience direct benefit if their disease biology differs from those studied or if findings do not translate into therapies.

What this research studies

This project focuses on how B cells change at the genetic and epigenetic level in autoimmune diseases. By analyzing different B cell subtypes in people with active disease and in remission, researchers aim to map signatures that may explain why some patients respond differently to treatments. The work uses patient samples to study DNA methylation, histone modifications, and gene expression, with the goal of identifying targets for more effective, personalized therapies. Findings could lead to new strategies to modulate B cell activity and improve disease control for patients.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: Potential to guide the development of more precise B cell–targeted therapies that improve disease control and reduce flares.

How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have identified B cell–related signatures in autoimmune diseases, supporting the potential for translating epigenetic findings into therapies.

Where this research is happening

  • Emory University
    Atlanta, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Boss, Jeremy M. — Emory University
  • Study coordinator: Boss, Jeremy M.

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.