Understanding how certain immune cells contribute to lupus

Alteration of function and specificity of TFH in SLE

NIH-funded research Feinstein Institute for Medical Research · NIH-10650347

This study is looking at how certain immune cells behave in people with lupus and how a protein called BLIMP1 and the hormone estrogen might affect them, with the hope of finding new treatments for lupus patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionFeinstein Institute for Medical Research NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Manhasset, United States)
Project IDNIH-10650347 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of T follicular helper cells (TFH) in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), a complex autoimmune disease. By using a mouse model that mimics human SLE, the study examines how a specific deficiency in a protein called BLIMP1 affects the immune response and the development of autoantibodies. The researchers aim to understand how estrogen influences these immune cells and their interactions, which could lead to new therapeutic strategies for patients with SLE.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus, particularly those who may have specific immune cell profiles.

Not a fit: Patients with other autoimmune diseases or those not diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to targeted therapies that improve treatment outcomes for patients with systemic lupus erythematosus.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding immune cell functions in autoimmune diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Manhasset, United States

Researchers

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 below.
Conditions Autoimmune Diseasesautoimmune disorderautoimmunity disease
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.