#United States #New York #Lupus Research Alliance #Breakthrough T1D #National MS Society

Advancing Autoimmunity Research: Insight Awards Announced

On September 25, 2025, Breakthrough T1D (formerly JDRF), the Lupus Research Alliance, and the National Multiple Sclerosis Society announced the grantees of the inaugural Common Mechanisms of Autoimmunity Insight Award. This collaborative initiative aims to deepen our understanding of the similarities and distinctions among various autoimmune disorders while expediting the development of effective treatments.

Autoimmune conditions signify chronic health issues where the immune system erroneously attacks the body's own cells, tissues, or organs, leading to severe inflammation and damage. In the United States alone, it is estimated that over 50 million individuals are affected by more than 80 different autoimmune diseases. Alarmingly, about 25% of those with one autoimmune condition are likely to develop another, highlighting the urgent need for research in this field.

To support this effort, seven exemplary research projects were chosen following a comprehensive evaluation of their innovative proposals. Each of these dedicated researchers will receive up to $150,000 for a one-year pilot study aimed at uncovering new mechanisms or proposing therapies that could significantly enhance the lives of those living with autoimmune diseases. Joshua Vieth, PhD, Senior Director of Research at Breakthrough T1D, emphasized the unique opportunity at hand. He stated, "While autoimmune diseases like type 1 diabetes, lupus, and multiple sclerosis display distinct symptoms, the underlying mechanisms that create immune imbalance are often similar. This initiative promotes collaboration in research that may yield key insights for all patients affected."

Promising Research Projects and Awardees

The recipients of the Insight Award include researchers from distinguished institutions who are investigating essential questions in autoimmunity:

• - Elena Hsieh, MD, University of Colorado Anschutz School of Medicine

Dr. Hsieh's project explores the role of B cells, which are crucial for infection defense, and how their failure in safety mechanisms may lead to autoimmune diseases.

• - Alok Joglekar, PhD, University of Pittsburgh

Dr. Joglekar aims to block the DOCK2 molecule, which facilitates the infiltration of immune cells causing organ damage in autoimmune diseases. His work might lay the groundwork for developing new treatment modalities.

• - Aly Khan, PhD, University of Chicago

Dr. Khan's focus is on identifying peptide fragments that might induce autoimmune responses, aiming to create personalized treatments that are more effective for patients.

• - Stuart Mannering, PhD, St. Vincent's Institute of Medical Research

He is developing a blood test that could detect harmful T cells, representing a significant step forward in analyzing autoimmune responses and improving diagnostic processes.

• - Gary Reynolds, MBBS, PhD, Massachusetts General Hospital

Dr. Reynolds studies localized inflammation patterns in autoimmune diseases and seeks to identify mechanisms that allow protective surrounding tissues to withstand damage.

• - Kelsey Voss, PhD, University of Virginia School of Medicine

Her research investigates how the disruption of a critical iron-transporting receptor could restore immune balance, which could lead to targeted anti-inflammatory therapies.

• - Yoshiaki Yasumizu, MD, PhD, Yale School of Medicine

Dr. Yasumizu's innovative approach uses single-cell RNA sequencing to determine which genes are active in B cells, paving the way for new tailored therapies and treatment strategies for autoimmune conditions.

Maya Bader, PhD, Director of Research at the Lupus Research Alliance, highlighted the ambitious nature of these projects. She stated, "These researchers exhibited immense talent and innovative thinking, and we hope this research will unveil vital solutions for the millions afflicted by autoimmune diseases."

Launched in 2019, the Common Mechanism of Autoimmunity program has witnessed remarkable success in funding groundbreaking research. Prior efforts have already begun to illuminate pathways that could be targeted for diverse autoimmune illnesses. Dr. James Quinn, Director of Biomedical Research for the National MS Society, expressed his enthusiasm for future exploration, saying, "The insights gained from our previous recipients are shaping promising research directions, and we look forward to the discoveries this new cohort will bring."

About the Partner Organizations

Breakthrough T1D is recognized globally as a leading organization advocating for type 1 diabetes research and improved daily life for those affected.

The Lupus Research Alliance stands as the largest private funder of lupus research globally, focusing on advancing innovative scientific initiatives and fostering new talent within the research community.

The National Multiple Sclerosis Society dedicates itself to transforming the landscape for those impacted by multiple sclerosis through funding research, advocacy, and direct support programs.

To explore more about each awarded project, visit DecodingAutoimmunity.org.

This initiative marks a significant leap forward in addressing the challenges of autoimmune diseases, uniting prominent researchers dedicated to generating impactful advancements in understanding and treatment.