Understanding how immune cell energy factories work in autoimmune diseases
Mitochondrial Membrane Dynamics in Th17 Cells
['FUNDING_R01'] · JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY · NIH-11124616
This research explores how the energy-producing parts of certain immune cells, called Th17 cells, change shape and function, which could help us understand and treat autoimmune diseases.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11124616 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Our immune system relies on specialized cells, like Th17 cells, to protect us, but sometimes these cells can become overactive and cause autoimmune diseases. This project looks closely at the 'powerhouses' within these Th17 cells, called mitochondria, and how their shape and activity influence the cell's overall function. We want to learn why these mitochondria change their form and how these changes impact the immune cell's ability to respond correctly. By understanding these intricate details, we hope to find new ways to guide these cells for better treatment of conditions like autoimmune and inflammatory diseases.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients with autoimmune diseases or inflammatory conditions who might benefit from therapies that rebalance immune cell function could be interested in this foundational research.
Not a fit: Patients whose conditions are not related to T cell function or mitochondrial metabolism would likely not directly benefit from this specific line of research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new strategies for treating autoimmune and inflammatory diseases by targeting how immune cells use energy.
How similar studies have performed: While the role of mitochondrial metabolism in T cells is recognized, the specific focus on mitochondrial shape changes (dynamics) and the OPA1 protein in Th17 cells represents a novel area of investigation.
Where this research is happening
BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES
- JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY — BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: PEARCE, ERIKA L — JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: PEARCE, ERIKA L
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.
Conditions: Autoimmune Diseases