Understanding how certain cell signaling affects immune responses in autoimmune diseases
Official title: Defining how phospholipid signaling networks control Th17 differentiation and effector function
Funded at University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh · NIH-10990532 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain signals in the body affect a type of immune cell called Th17, which plays a role in autoimmune diseases, to find new ways to help balance the immune system for people with these conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project start | December 1, 2023 |
| Project end | October 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $609,518 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI175111-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10990532 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis or rheumatoid arthritis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-autoimmune conditions or those not experiencing immune system dysregulation may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of phospholipid signaling networks in the differentiation and function of Th17 cells, which are involved in autoimmune diseases. By analyzing how these signaling pathways influence the balance between proinflammatory Th17 cells and regulatory T cells, the study aims to identify potential therapeutic targets. The approach includes advanced techniques like phosphoproteomics to profile the signaling proteins that drive Th17 differentiation. Patients with autoimmune conditions may benefit from insights gained about restoring immune balance.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that help restore balance in the immune system for patients with autoimmune diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting immune signaling pathways for therapeutic purposes, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hawse, William Francis — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Hawse, William Francis
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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.