Dr. Wofsy’s research is focused on the cellular
and molecular mechanisms that lead to autoimmune diseases. For many
years, this work was conducted in murine models for systemic lupus
erythematosus (SLE), but in recent years Dr. Wofsy has become increasingly
involved in clinical trials of new therapies in humans. The principal
strategy of the work in murine models has been to use monoclonal antilymphocyte
antibodies (mAb) or recombinant fusion proteins to inhibit selected
lymphocyte subsets, surface molecules, or secreted products in mice
that spontaneously develop an illness that closely resembles SLE in
people. This research has two closely related goals. First, by inhibiting
selected targets in lupus-prone mice, Dr. Wofsy seeks to determine
the role of distinct cell subsets, surface molecules, or cytokines
in the pathogenesis of autoimmune disease. Second, by identifying
components of the immune system that promote SLE, Dr. Wofsy seeks
to develop new approaches to the treatment of autoimmune diseases.
Dr. Wofsy’s research first demonstrated the critical importance
of CD4+ T cells in promoting murine lupus, and then suggested the
use of non-depleting anti-CD4 mAb in the treatment of autoimmune diseases
in humans. Subsequently, Dr. Wofsy and his colleagues showed that
selective inhibition of T cell costimulation via CD28 and/or CD40-ligand
could produce profound benefit in lupus-prone mice. Based in part
on these observations, Dr. Wofsy is now conducting clinical trials
designed to determine whether inhibition of T cell costimulation can
be effective in people with SLE.
|
Biomedical Sciences (BMS) Graduate Program
