Understanding how immune cells change in autoimmune diseases
Regulatory mechanisms governing Th17 cell effector identity and plasticity
This work explores how certain immune cells, called Th17 cells, change their behavior, which could help us understand and treat autoimmune diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11225921 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our immune system has specialized cells called Th17 cells that usually protect us from infections. However, these cells can sometimes change their function and contribute to autoimmune conditions like inflammatory bowel disease and multiple sclerosis. This research aims to uncover the specific ways these Th17 cells are controlled, particularly focusing on a protein called JunB. By understanding how JunB acts as a "gatekeeper" to prevent these cells from becoming more harmful, we hope to find new ways to manage autoimmune diseases.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients living with autoimmune conditions, particularly those involving Th17 cell dysregulation like inflammatory bowel disease or multiple sclerosis, could potentially benefit from future therapies developed from this basic understanding.
Not a fit: Patients whose conditions are not related to Th17 cell function or autoimmune processes may not directly benefit from this specific line of research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatments that target specific immune cell behaviors to reduce inflammation and improve outcomes for people with autoimmune diseases.
How similar studies have performed: Previous work by this team has identified JunB as a critical regulator in Th17 cells, and this grant extends that successful approach to related immune cells, building on established findings.
Where this research is happening
Durham, United States
- Duke University — Durham, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ciofani, Maria — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Ciofani, Maria
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.