Detecting Sjögren’s Disease and Sicca Syndrome through saliva testing

Saliva Anti-SSA/Ro and Anti-SSB/La for Early Detection of Sjögren’s and SICCA Syndromes

['FUNDING_R21'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LOS ANGELES · NIH-11055238

This study is working on a new saliva test to help find Sjögren’s Disease and its early signs more easily, so people can get the right treatment sooner without needing a blood test.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LOS ANGELES (nih funded)
Locations1 site (LOS ANGELES, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11055238 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a saliva-based test to detect Sjögren’s Disease (SjD) and its precursor, autoimmune-Sicca Syndrome (AI-Sicca), which are often misdiagnosed or diagnosed late. The study utilizes an innovative electrochemical assay called electric field-induced release and measurement (EFIRM) to identify specific autoantibodies in saliva, providing a non-invasive alternative to traditional blood tests. By analyzing saliva samples, the research aims to improve early detection and risk assessment for these autoimmune conditions, potentially leading to timely treatment for patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals experiencing symptoms of Sjögren’s Disease or Sicca Syndrome, particularly those who have not yet received a definitive diagnosis.

Not a fit: Patients who have already been diagnosed with Sjögren’s Disease or Sicca Syndrome may not benefit directly from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier diagnosis and better management of Sjögren’s Disease and Sicca Syndrome, improving patient outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Preliminary data suggests that similar saliva-based testing approaches have shown promise in detecting Sjögren’s Disease, indicating potential for success in this research.

Where this research is happening

LOS ANGELES, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Autoimmune Diseases

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.