Investigating gut bacteria and Bregs in SLE
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Investigating the links between the gut microbiome and regulatory B cells in systemic lupus erythematosus.
IRAS ID
191626
Contact name
Claudia Mauri
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
UCL
Duration of Study in the UK
3 years, 7 months, 31 days
Research summary
Auto-immune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are characterised by chronic inflammation which, if left untreated, can result in damage to the tissues and organs of patients. Regulatory B cells (Bregs) are a special type of white blood cell that produce large amounts of anti-inflammatory molecules. We have previously shown using mouse models that Bregs can protect against damage caused by inflammation, and that Breg development and activity is influenced by gut-bacteria. But the underlying molecular mechanisms that regulate these processes remain unclear.
In this project we aim to understand how the composition of gut-bacteria in patients with SLE and RA compares to healthy individuals, and how the composition of gut-bacteria changes during disease progression and in response to particular medications. In addition we also seek to understand what stimuli can be used to promote or enhance the development of Bregs from human blood cells. Ultimately developing methods that enhance the production or activity of Bregs may be therapeutically beneficial to patients with autoimmune diseases.
REC name
West Midlands - Coventry & Warwickshire Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
17/WM/0332
Date of REC Opinion
26 Sep 2017
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion