# B cells in the pathogenesis of allograft rejection

> **NIH NIH R01** · UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH · 2020 · $391,250

## Abstract

Chronic rejection of transplanted organs remains the primary cause of graft failure over time despite advances
in immunosuppression. Memory T cells and production of antibodies by B cells are recognized as important
mediators of chronic rejection but are not effectively controlled by current immunosuppression regimens. We
find that antibody-independent functions of B cells also play a significant role in the pathogenesis of
alloimmunity and chronic rejection by presenting antigen and providing costimulation to T cells. Here, we will
test the hypothesis that B cell interactions with T cells play a key role in the development, maintenance and
recall of T cell memory. We propose to (a) delineate when, where and which B cells interact with T cells in
shaping memory responses, and (b) test whether blocking these interactions will prevent chronic rejection.
Non-selective targeting of B cells by global depletion strategies may be detrimental as it also removes B cells
with regulatory functions. Understanding which specific B cell populations interact with T cells, when and
where they function to sustain long-lived memory is therefore a clinically relevant and significant goal. Results
from these proposed studies would allow us to develop novel therapies that inhibit T cell memory and prevent
chronic rejection by targeting specific functions, subpopulations and/or migration of B cells.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 9815953
- **Project number:** 5R01AI079177-08
- **Recipient organization:** UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH
- **Principal Investigator:** Geetha Chalasani
- **Activity code:** R01 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2020
- **Award amount:** $391,250
- **Award type:** 5
- **Project period:** 2008-09-23 → 2021-10-31

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/9815953

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 9815953, B cells in the pathogenesis of allograft rejection (5R01AI079177-08). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-24 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/9815953. Licensed CC0.

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