NCT05029336 · Stephan Grupp MD PhD
Autologous Stem Cell Transplant (ASCT) for Autoimmune Diseases
What this study is about
A subset of autoimmune diseases (ADs) in children and young adults are life-threatening and unresponsive to conventional treatments. In these patients, the delivery of high dose immunosuppressive therapy followed by autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT) offers a treatment strategy capable of purging the pathogenic, autoreactive immune system and an opportunity for "immune reset.
View original scientific description
A subset of autoimmune diseases (ADs) in children and young adults are life-threatening and unresponsive to conventional treatments. In these patients, the delivery of high dose immunosuppressive therapy followed by autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT) offers a treatment strategy capable of purging the pathogenic, autoreactive immune system and an opportunity for "immune reset." This strategy has been used in adults across a myriad of indications with evidence for efficacy. This study proposes a pilot study to evaluate this therapeutic strategy in children and young adults with systemic sclerosis (SSc) and systemic lupus erythematosis (SLE), two potentially life threatening autoimmune diseases that may response to this therapeutic approach.
Interventions
BIOLOGICAL
Depletion of CD3/CD19 in an autologous stem cell transplant
The purpose of this study is to determine the safety and feasibility of CD3/CD19 depleted autologous stem cell transplant for the treatment of life threatening autoimmune disease. We will perform CD3/CD19 depletion using the CliniMACs device as a means of purging autoreactive T and B cells from the transfused autologous stem cell product, while retaining some immune function, namely natural killer cells and monocytes in the product.
Primary outcome measures
Two-year progression free survival
Time frame: 2 years
Survival without evidence of relapse or disease progression
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Age 8 ≤ 25 years at time of enrollment.
- Severe systemic sclerosis or systemic lupus erythematosus based on specific criteria
- Adequate organ function status
- No active, untreated infections.
Exclusion criteria
- Previous hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) or solid organ transplant
- Ongoing participation in a clinical trial testing an investigational drug or ongoing receipt of disallowed disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARD)
- Severe comorbidity that jeopardizes the ability of the subject to tolerate therapy
Where
- Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Oct 14, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations