# ICES-based Pulsed Field Electromagnetic Field Therapy for Autoimmunity

> **NIH NIH R21** · UNIV OF NORTH CAROLINA CHAPEL HILL · 2021 · $194,375

## Abstract

SUMMARY/ABSTRACT
Human autoimmune diseases such as type 1 diabetes (T1D) are characterized by heterogeneous and complex
events driving immunopathology. To deal with this heterogeneity for disease prevention and treatment, we
need a variety of immunotherapies with distinct mechanisms of action. With this in mind, the goal of our R21
proposal is to establish proof-of-concept that pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) therapy is an effective
approach to selectively suppress ongoing autoimmunity, and reestablish self-tolerance. Micro/nano-currents
induced in vivo by PEMF under the appropriate conditions can alter cellular properties. Different types of PEMF
have been successfully and safely applied in the clinic; however, use of PEMF for autoimmunity has not been
tested.
 For this study, we are using a unique type of PEMF referred to as inductively coupled electrical stimulation
(ICES). Properties of ICES result in electromagnetic pulses believed to closely mimic native electrical signaling
events that enhance both biological effects and safety. Three Aims are outlined, employing NOD mice a
spontaneous model of T1D, to establish the applicability of ICES-based PEMF to modulate autoimmunity. In
Aim 1, studies will define the tolerogenic effects of ICES on  cell-specific T cell reactivity. Aim 2 will focus on
determining ICES effects on dendritic cell maturation and function. In Aim 3 ICES-induced immunoregulation
will be explored, and effects on acquired immunity investigated. This work is expected to establish a foundation
for future studies: 1) to further define the mechanisms by which ICES specifically, and PEMF in general
regulate immune effectors, and 2) to test the clinical application of ICES to prevent and/or treat T1D, as well as
other autoimmune diseases and immune-driven pathologies.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10079462
- **Project number:** 5R21AI144592-02
- **Recipient organization:** UNIV OF NORTH CAROLINA CHAPEL HILL
- **Principal Investigator:** Roland M Tisch
- **Activity code:** R21 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2021
- **Award amount:** $194,375
- **Award type:** 5
- **Project period:** 2020-01-06 → 2022-12-31

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10079462

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10079462, ICES-based Pulsed Field Electromagnetic Field Therapy for Autoimmunity (5R21AI144592-02). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-24 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10079462. Licensed CC0.

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