Understanding how immune cells behave in a specific lung disease related to scleroderma
Molecular Basis for Altered Natural Killer Cells in Systemic Sclerosis associated-Interstitial Lung Disease
This study is looking at how certain immune cells behave in people with lung problems caused by scleroderma, to better understand what makes these cells act differently and how that might affect lung health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11087300 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the behavior of natural killer (NK) cells in patients with systemic sclerosis-associated interstitial lung disease (SSc-ILD). By utilizing advanced techniques like single cell ATAC sequencing and Multiome-seq, the study aims to uncover the genetic and molecular mechanisms that lead to the activation of these immune cells in the lungs. The researchers will compare NK cells from affected lung tissue with those from healthy individuals to identify key transcription factors that may drive abnormal immune responses. This work could provide insights into the underlying causes of lung complications in scleroderma patients.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with systemic sclerosis who are experiencing interstitial lung disease.
Not a fit: Patients without systemic sclerosis or those not experiencing lung complications may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for managing lung disease in patients with systemic sclerosis.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding immune cell behavior in autoimmune diseases, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Pittsburgh, United States
- University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh — Pittsburgh, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lafyatis, Robert a. — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Lafyatis, Robert a.
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.