It is also evident that a void exists between the new information and new experimental approaches generated by basic research and the effective use of recent information to develop methods and procedures for clinical application. The reason for optimism is that, in several experimental autoimmune disease models, the disease results from the autoaggressive actions of a highly restricted number of T-cell clones. There likewise appear to be opportunities to employ cell adhesion molecules and lymphocyte homing receptors to treat inflammation, various infections, and asthma. An approach that appears unusually promising in altering the course of autoimmune and allergic diseases is the induction of oral tolerance by appropriate tolerogenic substances. The scope of these program project grants includes all aspects of research concerned with the treatment or prevention of model experimental autoimmune, allergic, and inflammatory disorders.
Studies involving valid in vitro models are appropriate.
Investigations that involve human subjects or human materials are welcome. This policy is intended to apply to males and females of all ages. If women or minorities are excluded or inadequately represented in clinical research, particularly in proposed population-based studies, a clear compelling rationale should be provided. This information should be included in the form PHS 398 in Section 2, A-D of the Research Plan AND summarized in Section 2, E, Human Subjects. The usual NIH policies concerning research on human subjects also apply.