Cranston

Researchers are investigating the targets of disease-reactive T cells in patients with various autoimmune diseases, including inflammatory bowel diseases, celiac disease, ankylosing spondylitis, multiple sclerosis, scleroderma, systemic sclerosis with lung involvement, and others. The study focuses on identifying the natural peptide targets recognized by T cell receptors (TCRs) in inflamed tissues, which may help develop new treatments that specifically target these immune responses. This approach uses high-throughput technology developed by TScan to discover these targets from active disease tissues. Participants will provide tissue samples during clinically indicated procedures or research biopsies, along with companion blood samples collected around the same time. The study involves isolating T cells from diseased tissues and matched blood or normal tissues, then identifying T cell clones expanded in the affected organs. These clones' TCR targets will be determined using TScan's genome-wide technology. No specific drug treatments are administered by the study; instead, it collects biospecimens for analysis. During the study, researchers will collect and analyze tissue and blood samples to identify disease-associated TCRs and their peptide targets over a 3-year period. Participants must be willing and able to consent and undergo the procedures. The study tracks T cell targets as the primary outcome, aiming to discover new therapeutic targets. Safety considerations include excluding those with conditions that increase biopsy risks. Total participation duration depends on the timing of tissue collection and subsequent analyses.

Researchers are evaluating a simplified, low-barrier treatment program for adults with active hepatitis C virus (HCV) who are incarcerated and awaiting trial at the Rhode Island Department of Corrections. The study aims to determine if this approach helps people start and complete HCV treatment more easily in a jail setting. It also assesses whether this model is feasible, acceptable, and effective, especially for individuals who inject drugs. This pilot study uses a hybrid effectiveness-implementation design to explore how well the program can be expanded to other jails and contribute to national efforts to eliminate HCV. Participants will receive a full 12-week course of sofosbuvir/velpatasvir (Epclusa) tablets, with no lab monitoring required during treatment. If released before completing the treatment, participants will take the remaining medication with them. Community Health Workers provide support after release, helping with medication reminders, coordinating follow-up lab work, and assisting with basic needs such as transportation, housing, and employment. The study enrolls 40 adults meeting specific medical and safety criteria, focusing on a treatment model that minimizes barriers within the correctional environment. During the study, researchers will track whether participants are cured of HCV between 12 and 24 weeks after finishing treatment. They will also evaluate the program's feasibility, acceptability, and fidelity by assessing medication adherence and participant engagement. Additional data will include participant demographics, treatment costs, and qualitative feedback from participants and staff to improve the program. The study lasts throughout the 12-week treatment and includes follow-up periods to monitor ongoing care and reinfection risks.