The Role of the Interferon-Gamma-Jak/STAT Pathway in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Abstract
This proposal addresses the Fiscal Year 2015 Peer Reviewed Medical Research Program Topic Area of Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA). We have previously shown that genes that make cell receptors to a protein called interferon-gamma are "turned on" in peripheral blood cells of patients with RA who have damage to their joints (compared to those patients without damage to their joints). One of the key questions we will address in follow-up to this finding is: In which of the many types of immune cells in peripheral blood are these genes turned on? The possibilities include cells such as B lymphocytes that make antibodies, T lymphocytes that help turn on or turn off the immune response, or monocytes that secrete protein messengers called cytokines. Another important question is which "switches" (of many available in the cells) the molecule interferon-gamma uses to turn on the cells. By identifying which of these switches are used to turn on the cells, we hope to better understand the ways in which RA damages the bones and joints, and thereby find new ways to treat or prevent joint damage. The knowledge we will gain can also be used in a number of other ways. For example, these lessons learned might help us to better understand other autoimmune diseases in which there are abnormal signals turned on or off through switches. These diseases might include lupus, multiple sclerosis, or cancer. In addition, the knowledge we will gain might help us to develop tools to better understand which patients respond better to particular treatments. In the long run, this may help us to use the right drug at the right time in the right patient to help treat RA and avoid side effects and a "hit or miss" approach to treatment.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Jan 31, 2017
- Source ID
- W81XWH1610537
Entities
People
- Stanley Bridges
Organizations
- United States Army
- University of Alabama at Birmingham