Understanding how T cells regulate harmful B cells in autoimmune diseases like lupus
Official title: T cell regulation of pathogenic B cells in systemic autoimmunity
Funded at Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences · NIH-11042725 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain immune cells called T cells help control B cells that make harmful antibodies in people with lupus, with the goal of finding new ways to treat the disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Newark, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | February 23, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $436,319 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AR073912-07 |
| Project ID | NIH-11042725 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus who are experiencing active disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other autoimmune diseases or those without a diagnosis of lupus may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of T cells in controlling B cells that produce harmful antibodies in systemic lupus erythematosus (lupus). It focuses on how specific B cell subsets, particularly Tbet+ B cells, contribute to the disease by producing autoantibodies that cause tissue damage. The study will analyze the development and activity of these B cells in relation to disease progression, using advanced techniques to track their behavior in both animal models and human samples. By understanding these mechanisms, the research aims to identify potential therapeutic targets for treating lupus.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that better manage or even prevent the harmful effects of lupus.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding T cell and B cell interactions in autoimmune diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences
Newark, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Weinstein, Jason — Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Weinstein, Jason
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.