How genes shape immune diseases like ankylosing spondylitis and eye inflammation
Insights Into Immune-Related Diseases Born from Population Genomics
Researchers are using large-scale population genetics to find how immune-system genes influence adults with conditions such as ankylosing spondylitis and anterior uveitis.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11172117 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project looks at genetic data from many adults to find links between immune-system genes (like HLA, KIR, and NKC regions) and diseases such as axial spondyloarthritis and acute anterior uveitis. Investigators combine genetic information with clinical records to see who is more likely to develop painful joint disease, eye inflammation, or worse long-term outcomes. The work focuses on known risk genes (for example HLA-B*27) and broader population patterns that might explain why some people get severe disease while others do not. Findings come from human samples and health data collected across participating centers.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults (21+) with axial spondyloarthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic or colitis-associated arthritis, or acute anterior uveitis, or adults willing to share genetic and medical-record data.
Not a fit: Children under 21 and people without immune-mediated joint or eye conditions are unlikely to see direct benefit from this project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could help predict who is at higher risk for spondyloarthritis or uveitis and guide more personalized care or monitoring.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has already linked HLA-B*27 and related genes to spondyloarthritis and uveitis, but large population-genetics approaches to predict outcomes and tailor care are still maturing.
Where this research is happening
Aurora, UNITED STATES
- University of Colorado Denver — Aurora, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Norman, Paul John — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Norman, Paul John
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 below.