Understanding immune cells that help prevent autoimmune diseases
Official title: Clonal analysis of naturally occurring IL-10-producing Tr1 cells
Funded at University of Chicago · NIH-11109714 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at special immune cells called Tr1 cells that help keep our immune system in check, and by understanding how they work in mice, researchers hope to find new ways to treat autoimmune diseases that could help people like you.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | June 6, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $196,296 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI183511-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11109714 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals with autoimmune diseases or those at risk of developing such conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-autoimmune conditions or those who do not have a history of autoimmune diseases may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a specific type of immune cell known as Tr1 cells, which produce a cytokine called IL-10 that helps regulate the immune response. By analyzing these cells in mice, the researchers aim to uncover how they contribute to preventing autoimmune diseases. The study employs advanced techniques to profile the T cell receptor (TCR) repertoire and perform clonal analyses, which could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating autoimmune conditions in humans. Patients may benefit from insights gained about how to harness these cells for better treatment options.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that effectively manage or prevent autoimmune diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in utilizing Tr1 cells for therapeutic purposes, indicating that this approach has potential based on earlier successes.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Savage, Peter Aidan — University of Chicago
- Study coordinator: Savage, Peter Aidan
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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.