Understanding how T cells contribute to autoimmune diseases
Official title: T cells promoting transitions toward autoimmunity
Funded at Benaroya Research Inst at Virginia Mason · NIH-10909939 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain immune cells called T cells might contribute to autoimmune diseases, especially in people who are at risk for type 1 diabetes or have Down syndrome, to better understand what causes these conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Benaroya Research Inst at Virginia Mason NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project start | August 18, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $1,297,273 |
| NIH project number | 5U01AI176320-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10909939 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals at risk for type 1 diabetes and those with Down syndrome.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without a genetic predisposition to autoimmune diseases or those not at risk for type 1 diabetes or Down syndrome may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of T cells in the development of autoimmune diseases, particularly focusing on individuals at risk for type 1 diabetes and those with Down syndrome. By examining how genetic, environmental, and immunological factors influence the transition from sub-clinical autoimmunity to full-blown autoimmune disease, the study aims to identify key mechanisms involved. The research utilizes advanced techniques to analyze T cell behavior and epigenetic changes in these populations, providing insights into the triggers that may lead to autoimmune conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and potentially new treatments for autoimmune diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding T cell dynamics in autoimmune diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Benaroya Research Inst at Virginia Mason
Seattle, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Buckner, Jane Hoyt — Benaroya Research Inst at Virginia Mason
- Study coordinator: Buckner, Jane Hoyt
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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T cells and the switch from pre-autoimmunity to autoimmune disease
A study following people at risk for type 1 diabetes and people with Down syndrome to understand how certain T cells may shift toward causing autoimmune disease.
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Genetic and epigenetic control of T cell function in autoimmune disease
This grant aims to understand how genetic and epigenetic changes affect how T cells behave in autoimmune diseases to find ways to reduce harmful immune responses.
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Immune Tolerance Network (ITN) for immune tolerance therapies across autoimmune and allergic diseases
A national network runs clinical trials to test new immune-tolerance therapies that could help people with autoimmune and allergic diseases.
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Immune Tolerance Network for safer, more effective immune therapies
A nationwide network tests new immune therapies to help people with autoimmune diseases, allergies, and transplant patients reach better control of their immune system.
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Immune tolerance research network for safer transplant and autoimmune therapies
A national effort tests new treatments that make the immune system tolerate transplanted organs and fight autoimmune and allergic diseases more safely.
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Immune Tolerance Network for allergy, autoimmunity, and transplantation
A large NIH program tests new immune-tolerance therapies to help people with autoimmune diseases, allergies, and transplant patients.
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.