How estrogen affects immune cells in systemic sclerosis
Official title: Estrogen Regulation of Macrophage Activation in Systemic Sclerosis
Funded at Dartmouth College · NIH-10953977 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how estrogen affects immune cells in people with systemic sclerosis, hoping to find new ways to treat this autoimmune disease by understanding how estrogen influences inflammation and tissue scarring.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Dartmouth College NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Hanover, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2019 |
| Project end | June 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $328,000 |
| NIH project number | 3P20GM130454-06S2 |
| Project ID | NIH-10953977 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are women diagnosed with systemic sclerosis, particularly those experiencing severe symptoms related to inflammation and fibrosis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with systemic sclerosis who are male or those with other autoimmune diseases not influenced by estrogen may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of estrogen in the activation of immune cells called macrophages in patients with systemic sclerosis, a serious autoimmune disease. The study aims to understand how estrogen influences inflammation and fibrosis, which are key features of this condition. By examining the mechanisms of macrophage activation, the research seeks to identify potential new treatment strategies that could target estrogen pathways. This could lead to improved therapies for patients suffering from systemic sclerosis and similar autoimmune diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment options that specifically target estrogen pathways to improve outcomes for patients with systemic sclerosis.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific role of estrogen in macrophage activation in systemic sclerosis is not extensively studied, there is emerging evidence suggesting that targeting hormonal pathways may be beneficial in treating autoimmune diseases.
Where this research is happening
-
Dartmouth College
Hanover, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Whitfield, Michael L — Dartmouth College
- Study coordinator: Whitfield, Michael L
Related research
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A research project at the University of Michigan looks at how differences in fat tissue and blood vessels relate to skin scarring in systemic sclerosis, with the aim of finding new ways to treat or prevent fibrosis.
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Vasculopathy in Systemic Sclerosis and Lung Disease in Adults
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.