Research from investigators at the University of Colorado suggests that blood stem cells may hold a “memory” that contributes to the flare-ups of autoimmune diseases. The research team was led by Eric Pietras, PhD, and includes AABB Foundation Hall of Fame member Angelo D’Alessandro, PhD. They published the findings in
Cell Stem Cell. In the study, Pietras, D’Alessandro and their colleagues examined how blood stem cells might influence the recurrence of autoimmune disease symptoms. They transplanted blood stem cells from mice with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) into healthy mice, then examined the macrophages that emerged from these stem cells.
The study revealed that the SLE blood stem cells triggered a hyper-inflammatory state in the transplanted mice, exhibiting distinct metabolic features compared to immune cells from healthy mice. According to investigators, the findings suggest that the “memory” of autoimmune disease may reside in the stem cells themselves.
Pietras, D’Alessandro and their colleagues also found that targeting the metabolism of these stem cells could reduce inflammation, potentially opening new doors for understanding how metabolic changes might contribute to the persistence of autoimmune disease symptoms.
“By examining the fundamental role of blood stem cells, we’re beginning to rethink how autoimmune diseases persist and relapse,” Pietras said. “Understanding the metabolic and epigenetic changes within these cells could lead to new therapeutic strategies.”
The Impact of the AABB Foundation
The AABB Foundation congratulates D’Alessandro and his colleagues on this breakthrough. In 2016, D’Alessandro received an
AABB Foundation early-career scientific research grant, and over the years, more than 200 researchers have been able to advance innovative research with funding support from the AABB Foundation.
An AABB Foundation grant is a milestone for many investigators, often marking the beginning of their career trajectories. To learn more about these grants or to make a financial gift that supports critical early-stage research and the future leaders of the field, visit
aabb.org/foundation.
