The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) created the Autoimmunity Centers of Excellence (ACE) to encourage and enable collaborative research in the search for effective treatments for autoimmune diseases. The ACE program supports an integrated basic and clinical research program that focuses on treatment or prevention approaches that induce immune tolerance or modulate the immune system. The Centers that make up the ACE program will conduct clinical trials and basic research on new immune-based therapies for autoimmune diseases.

The ACE program strives to enhance interactions between scientists and clinicians to accelerate the translation of research findings into medical applications. By promoting better coordination and communication, the ACE program is one of NIAID’s primary vehicles for both expanding our knowledge and improving our ability to effectively prevent and treat autoimmune diseases