Understanding how macrophages become overly activated in certain diseases

Cellular mechanisms of macrophage activation syndrome

NIH-funded research University of Washington · NIH-11136720

This study is looking at how certain immune cells can go into overdrive and cause serious inflammation in people with autoimmune diseases, especially focusing on ways to find new treatments to help manage or prevent this condition called macrophage activation syndrome.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Washington NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Seattle, United States)
Project IDNIH-11136720 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates macrophage activation syndrome (MAS), a severe inflammatory condition that can occur in children and adults with certain autoimmune diseases. The study focuses on how specific immune cells, particularly monocytes, become abnormally activated, leading to excessive inflammation and tissue damage. By analyzing the cellular mechanisms involved, the research aims to identify potential therapeutic targets that could help manage or prevent MAS in affected patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include children and adults diagnosed with systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis or Adult-onset Still's Disease who are experiencing symptoms of macrophage activation syndrome.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to macrophage activation syndrome or those who do not have autoimmune diseases may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that better control inflammation in patients with autoimmune diseases, potentially saving lives.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding macrophage activation in related conditions, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Seattle, 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.
Conditions Adult-Onset Still's Disease
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.