Using immune cells to treat fibrosis and inflammation in systemic sclerosis
Cellular Immunotherapy to Combat Fibrosis and Inflammation in Systemic Sclerosis
This study is testing a new treatment for systemic sclerosis that uses specially designed immune cells to target and remove harmful cells causing inflammation and scarring, with the hope of making life better for people with this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Dartmouth College NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Hanover, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10851816 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates a new treatment for systemic sclerosis, an autoimmune disease that causes severe inflammation and fibrosis in various organs. The approach focuses on targeting specific immune cells known as pro-fibrotic macrophages using engineered T cells, which are designed to eliminate these harmful cells. By administering these specialized T cells, the researchers aim to reduce fibrosis in the skin and lungs, potentially improving patient outcomes. The study will assess the effectiveness of this treatment in a preclinical model before considering human trials.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with systemic sclerosis who are experiencing significant fibrosis and inflammation.
Not a fit: Patients with systemic sclerosis who do not have significant fibrosis or those with other unrelated autoimmune conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a groundbreaking therapy that significantly reduces fibrosis and improves the quality of life for patients with systemic sclerosis.
How similar studies have performed: While the use of CAR T cell therapy is a novel approach in this context, similar immunotherapy strategies have shown promise in treating other autoimmune diseases and cancers.
Where this research is happening
Hanover, United States
- Dartmouth College — Hanover, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pioli, Patricia a. — Dartmouth College
- Study coordinator: Pioli, Patricia a.
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.