Understanding how the body's immune system controls autoimmune diseases like diabetes
Project 1 - Modulation of Tolerance and Autoimmunity by Inhibitory Receptors
['FUNDING_P01'] · UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH · NIH-11106590
This research aims to understand how certain immune system signals, called inhibitory receptors, help prevent autoimmune diseases and how we can use this knowledge to develop better treatments.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_P01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11106590 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Our immune system has natural brakes, called inhibitory receptors (IRs), that stop it from attacking our own body, which is what happens in autoimmune diseases. This project focuses on two important IRs, PD1 and LAG3, to learn how they work together to keep the immune system in balance. We want to find out how these IRs control specific immune cells, called T cells, that cause autoimmune conditions. By understanding these mechanisms, we hope to find new ways to either boost these brakes to treat autoimmune diseases or release them carefully to fight cancers and infections without causing harmful side effects.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is relevant to patients with autoimmune diseases, including autoimmune diabetes, who might benefit from future therapies developed from this understanding.
Not a fit: Patients without autoimmune conditions or those seeking immediate treatment options may not directly benefit from this basic science research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new and safer treatments for autoimmune diseases, potentially reducing side effects seen with current therapies.
How similar studies have performed: Similar approaches targeting these inhibitory receptors have already shown success in cancer therapy and are being explored in clinical trials for autoimmune conditions.
Where this research is happening
PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH — PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: SHARPE, ARLENE H. — UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH
- Study coordinator: SHARPE, ARLENE H.
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 Diabetes, Autoimmune Diseases