Understanding how COPA syndrome affects the immune system
Unraveling the molecular mechanisms of impaired central tolerance in COPA syndrome
This study is looking at COPA syndrome, a rare autoimmune condition that causes inflammation in the lungs, joints, and kidneys, to better understand how changes in a specific gene affect the immune system, with the goal of finding new treatments for people with this condition and similar ones.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11040999 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates COPA syndrome, a rare autoimmune disorder that leads to inflammation in the lungs, joints, and kidneys. Using a specially designed mouse model, researchers are exploring how mutations in the COPA gene disrupt the body's ability to regulate immune responses, particularly focusing on T cells. The study aims to uncover the underlying mechanisms that cause this breakdown in immune tolerance, which could provide insights into similar autoimmune conditions. By understanding these processes, the research hopes to identify potential therapeutic targets for patients suffering from COPA syndrome and related disorders.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with COPA syndrome, particularly those experiencing symptoms like lung disease and inflammatory arthritis.
Not a fit: Patients with autoimmune disorders unrelated to COPA syndrome may not benefit directly from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for patients with COPA syndrome and improve understanding of other autoimmune diseases.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in understanding autoimmune mechanisms through similar genetic and immunological approaches, indicating potential for impactful findings in this study.
Where this research is happening
San Francisco, United States
- University of California, San Francisco — San Francisco, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shum, Anthony — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Shum, Anthony
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 below.