Sjögren’s disease (SjD) is a systemic autoimmune disorder in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its moisture-producing glands, leading to dry eyes and mouth, a hallmark of the condition. Individuals with SjD also have an increased risk of developing B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL), likely due to chronic B-cell activation and dysregulation.

Emerging evidence suggests that a protein called BOB1 plays a key role in regulating the immune system, specifically in T cell-dependent responses, germinal center formation, and antibody (immunoglobulin) production. BOB1 levels are aberrantly high in targeted SjD tissues and various NHLs, suggesting that dysregulation of BOB1 can contribute to both autoimmune diseases like SjD and lymphoma development.
Our recent studies have shown that inhibiting BOB1 can suppress various B-cell functions, including proliferation, differentiation, and antibody production, ultimately hindering the growth of malignant B cells. This suggests that BOB1 may be a promising therapeutic target for SjD and associated lymphoma. The BATMAN project aims to elucidate the role of BOB1 in the progression from autoimmune SjD to lymphoma. By utilizing patient samples, in vitro and in vivo experimental models, novel selective BOB1 inhibitors and radiotracers based on these inhibitors, and advanced imaging techniques, the BATMAN consortium will investigate the mechanisms by which BOB1 contributes to disease progression.

This comprehensive approach will evaluate BOB1’s potential as both a therapeutic target and a biomarker. Ultimately, this research may pave the way for developing novel targeted therapies, potentially stratified by BOB1 expression levels, for SjD patients at risk of developing NHL.