Understanding how immune cells affect salivary gland health
Official title: PD-1 Mediated Regulation of Salivary Gland Integrity
Funded at Brown University · NIH-10897764 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how a part of the immune system called PD-1 affects the health of your salivary glands and how immune cells might contribute to conditions like Sicca Syndrome, with the hope of finding ways to keep these glands working well for people with autoimmune diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brown University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Providence, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | November 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $52,274 |
| NIH project number | 5F31DE032593-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10897764 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with autoimmune diseases, particularly those experiencing symptoms related to salivary gland dysfunction.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without autoimmune conditions or those not experiencing salivary gland issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of immune checkpoints, specifically PD-1, in regulating the health of salivary glands. It focuses on how immune cells, particularly T cells and natural killer (NK) cells, interact within these glands and how their activity can lead to autoimmune conditions like Sicca Syndrome. By examining the effects of PD-1 signaling on immune cell behavior, the research aims to uncover mechanisms that could help maintain salivary gland integrity and prevent dysfunction. Patients with autoimmune diseases may find this research relevant as it explores potential pathways for improving their condition.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating autoimmune diseases affecting the salivary glands.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding immune checkpoint roles in other autoimmune conditions, suggesting potential for success in this area as well.
Where this research is happening
-
Brown University
Providence, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Borys, Samantha — Brown University
- Study coordinator: Borys, Samantha
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.