TLR9 Regulates Axl Dependent Migration of Autoreactive B Cells

In lupus, proteins in the immune system known as toll-like receptors help trigger the damaging effects of the disease. But one of the proteins, known as TLR9, is the black sheep of the toll-like receptor family—it reduces the severity of lupus symptoms. Dr. Nündel’s research suggests that TLR9 is helpful because it prevents immune cells known as B cells from moving into tissues where they can cause injury. She now wants to uncover how TLR controls B cell movements and identify an approach for treatment that can stop their migration.

What this study means for people with lupus

The immune system is the villain in lupus, but one immune system protein appears to protect patients’ cells. Dr. Nündel seeks to find out how and whether this insight can lead to a potential treatment.