Understanding T Cells in Inflammatory Skin Conditions

CD1 autoreactive T cells in human inflammatory skin disease

['FUNDING_R37'] · BRIGHAM AND WOMEN'S HOSPITAL · NIH-11126822

This research explores how certain immune cells in our skin, called T cells, contribute to inflammatory skin conditions like autoimmune diseases.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R37']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorBRIGHAM AND WOMEN'S HOSPITAL (nih funded)
Locations1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11126822 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

Our skin contains many immune cells, including T cells, which play a role in protecting us and can also contribute to autoimmune skin diseases. This project looks at a specific type of T cell that reacts to proteins called CD1a on other skin cells. We want to understand how these T cells are activated and how certain natural fats (lipids) in the skin might block this activation. By learning more about these interactions, we hope to find new ways to manage inflammatory skin conditions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: This foundational research is for individuals with inflammatory skin diseases or healthy volunteers who might be interested in contributing samples to understand the underlying causes of these conditions.

Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate new treatments or direct clinical intervention would not benefit from this basic science project.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatments that target specific immune responses in the skin, offering relief for people with inflammatory skin diseases.

How similar studies have performed: While the role of CD1a in T cell activation is known, this project explores a novel mechanism of negative regulation by lipids, building on prior discoveries in the field.

Where this research is happening

BOSTON, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Autoimmune Diseases

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.