Understanding how immune cells contribute to autoimmune diseases

Regulators of immune complex mediated neutrophil antigen presentation

['FUNDING_R01'] · BRIGHAM AND WOMEN'S HOSPITAL · NIH-11040307

This research explores how certain immune cells called neutrophils might worsen autoimmune diseases, especially those that affect the kidneys.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorBRIGHAM AND WOMEN'S HOSPITAL (nih funded)
Locations1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11040307 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

Autoimmune diseases, which affect millions of Americans, happen when the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own healthy tissues. This project focuses on immune cells called neutrophils, specifically how they can transform into powerful antigen-presenting cells (nAPCs) when they encounter immune complexes. These nAPCs are similar to other immune cells known to trigger strong immune responses, and early findings suggest they might play a role in autoimmune conditions like lupus. By understanding how these nAPCs work, we hope to find new ways to help patients with these challenging diseases.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: This foundational research is relevant to patients living with autoimmune diseases, particularly those experiencing kidney involvement such as ANCA vasculitis or lupus nephritis.

Not a fit: Individuals without autoimmune conditions or those whose conditions are not related to the immune mechanisms being studied would not directly benefit from this specific research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatments that target these specific immune cells to reduce inflammation and damage in autoimmune diseases.

How similar studies have performed: This project builds upon recent findings that show neutrophils can act as antigen-presenting cells, representing a new direction in understanding their role in autoimmune disorders.

Where this research is happening

BOSTON, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.