Understanding how HLA-B27 contributes to autoimmune diseases
Official title: Animal model of HLA-B27 disease
Funded at Washington University · NIH-11084506 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific molecule called HLA-B27 might play a role in autoimmune diseases like ankylosing spondylitis and anterior uveitis, using animal models to learn how it interacts with immune cells, which could help find new ways to treat these conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | May 6, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $165,919 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AR084166-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11084506 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis or anterior uveitis, particularly those with the HLA-B27 allele.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without ankylosing spondylitis or anterior uveitis, or those who do not carry the HLA-B27 allele, may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the HLA-B27 molecule in autoimmune diseases, particularly ankylosing spondylitis and anterior uveitis. By using animal models, the study aims to understand how HLA-B27 presents antigens to CD8+ T cells, which may trigger immune responses leading to these conditions. The researchers will analyze T cell receptors from affected patients to identify specific peptides that could be involved in disease processes. This approach may provide insights into the mechanisms of disease and potential therapeutic targets.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for patients suffering from ankylosing spondylitis and related autoimmune conditions.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of HLA-B27 in autoimmune diseases, but this specific approach using animal models is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yokoyama, Wayne M. — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Yokoyama, Wayne M.
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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.