Understanding how special immune cells called B cells help prevent rejection in organ transplants and autoimmune diseases
In Vivo Detection And Mechanisms of Regulatory B cell Function in Transplantation
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH · NIH-11064042
This work explores how certain B cells, known as regulatory B cells, protect the body from autoimmune conditions and help transplanted organs stay healthy.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11064042 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Our bodies have special immune cells called B cells that help control immune responses. Some of these B cells, called regulatory B cells, are important for preventing the immune system from attacking healthy tissues or transplanted organs. This project aims to understand exactly which B cells perform this protective role and how they are regulated within the body. By identifying specific markers and signals, we hope to learn how to encourage these helpful B cells to grow and function better. This knowledge could lead to new ways to prevent organ rejection and treat autoimmune diseases.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is relevant for patients with autoimmune diseases or those who have received organ transplants, as it seeks to understand the underlying immune mechanisms affecting their conditions.
Not a fit: Patients without autoimmune conditions or organ transplants are unlikely to directly benefit from this specific research focus.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatments that strengthen the body's natural ability to accept transplanted organs and reduce the severity of autoimmune diseases.
How similar studies have performed: Previous work has shown that B cells play a critical role in maintaining immune tolerance, and tolerant human transplant recipients exhibit a specific 'Breg profile,' suggesting this approach builds on existing evidence.
Where this research is happening
PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH — PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: ROTHSTEIN, DAVID M — UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH
- Study coordinator: ROTHSTEIN, DAVID M
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.
Conditions: Autoimmune Diseases