Ruth J. Napier, PhD

Dr. Ruth Napier is an Associate Professor of Medicine in the Division of Rheumatology at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus. Her research explores how environmental microbes interact with the immune system to trigger autoimmunity in genetically susceptible individuals. A central focus of her work is on the NOD2 gene, where she has shown that NOD2 mutations are known to disrupt immune regulation and promote T cell–driven inflammation. Dr. Napier investigates how these pathways contribute to chronic inflammatory diseases, including Blau Syndrome, axial spondyloarthritis, uveitis and Parkinson’s disease. By integrating clinical studies with experimental models, her research aims to uncover disease mechanisms and identify novel therapeutic strategies. With a commitment to translational science, Dr. Napier’s goal is to advance treatments that alleviate inflammation and improve quality of life for individuals living with autoimmune and neuroinflammatory conditions. Her work stands at the intersection of immunology, genetics and precision medicine.