The Microbiome and Generation of RA-related Autoimmunity in the Lung

Associate Professor of Medicine at University of Colorado Dr. Deane in a meeting.

Title: The Microbiome and Generation of RA-related Autoimmunity in the Lung
Award: Disease Targeted Innovative Research Grant
Investigator: Kevin Deane, MD, PhD
Institution: University of Colorado

Kevin Deane, MD, PhD, assistant professor of medicine at the University of Colorado Denver, was awarded a Disease Targeted Innovative Research Grant to learn more about the role the lungs play in triggering rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

What is a Disease Targeted Innovative Research Grant?

Disease Targeted Innovative Research Grants encourage investigators to expand promising research into rheumatoid arthritis and related autoinflammatory diseases. The grant provides support for established investigators for further research that is supported by preliminary data.

What is the focus of this research?

Prior studies have shown certain markers in the blood can predict who will develop RA. Because these blood markers are present prior to the onset of joint disease, Dr. Deane speculates that RA originates in lung tissue for some patients and that bacteria may trigger early immune changes. This grant supports his investigation into how RA might be initiated in the lungs and the role certain bacteria play.

Why is this work important?

RA is a chronic and debilitating disease, but unlike hypertension, diabetes or other chronic diseases, few preventive interventions exist. By building on other findings, Dr. Deane’s work takes a novel approach to exploring the factors that actually lead to RA.

What are the potential implications?

Patients who receive treatment for RA early after symptoms begin may experience improved outcomes, but earlier intervention—prior to symptom onset—could prevent the disease entirely. Dr. Deane’s work aims to more fully understand the triggers and initiation of RA and advance efforts to prevent it.