Understanding how macrophages become overly activated in certain diseases
Official title: Cellular mechanisms of macrophage activation syndrome
Funded at University of Washington · NIH-11136720 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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 type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project start | June 17, 2025 |
| Project end | May 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $188,772 |
| NIH project number | 1K08AI170918-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11136720 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
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.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to macrophage activation syndrome or those who do not have autoimmune diseases may not benefit from this research.
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.
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 gone: 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
-
University of Washington
Seattle, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Canny, Susan Priscilla — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Canny, Susan Priscilla
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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.